The invention relates to piperidinyl compounds of Formula (I): or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, prodrug, or solvate thereof, wherein R1-R3 and Z are defined as set forth in the specification. The invention is also directed to an assay useful for identifying such compounds as N-type calcium channel modulators or blockers. The invention is also directed to the compounds of Formula (I) and compounds identified by the above assay, and the use of such compounds to treat, prevent or ameliorate a disorder responsive to the blockade of calcium channels, and particularly N-type calcium channels. Compounds of the present invention are especially useful for treating pain.
