Next time you've got a splitting headache and the drugs just don't work, then you might find that some snail spit will do the trick.

Scientists have developed a new pain-relief pill from a chemical used by sea snails to catch their pray – and it has been found as effective as morphine for relieving the most severe pain, without the risk of addiction.

Marine cone snails produce a saliva that contains a deadly dose of peptide toxins to help them catch their prey. They inject passing victims with needle-like teeth that shoot out of their mouths.

Scientists have already transformed one of the chemicals into a pain-reliever for humans, but it has to be injected into the spinal cord, which limits its use.

But researchers in Australia have now developed a form of painkiller than can be taken orally.

Professor Craik, who led the research at the University of Queensland, is now keen to take his research further as it could potentially revolutionise the treatment of the most severe forms of pain.

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