Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for slowing the development of mammalian organ, tissue and cellular damage and death by using a persistent sodium current blocker (or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or derivative thereof). The present invention further relates to a method for preventing damage and death in mammalian organs, tissues and cells or reducing the extent of damage and death in mammalian organs, tissues and cells. In particular the invention relates to a method for the treatment, amelioration or prevention of non-neuronal and non-myocardial cell or tissue damage or death and for reducing the pain associated with non-neuronal and non-myocardial cell or tissue damage.