To address the ongoing opioid crisis, CBS This Morning reported that researchers in Massachusetts are developing a non-addictive painkiller as a potential alternative to opioids. 

According to the segment, the painkiller is designed to cling to a different receptor in the central nervous system than opioids, eliminating dependence risks.

HSS anesthesiologist Robert S. Griffin, MD, PhD, offered his perspective on the potential treatment.

"It takes a long time to really know all the long-term effects and really to prove that something has no risk of addiction over time," said Dr. Griffin.

Watch the full segment at cbsnews.com. This aired during the June 8, 2018 broadcast.