AimTo determine the pharmacokinetics, safety and performance of a novel matrix formulation of fentanyl.
MethodsTransdermal fentanyl was administered as the novel matrix and the Durogesic ® reservoir formulations (24 subjects, 100 µ g h − 1 ) in a randomized, fully replicate, fourway crossover study. Serum concentrations of fentanyl were assayed by LC/MS/MS. Pharmacokinetic parameters of fentanyl and performance (adherence and skin irritability) were evaluated.
ResultsTest/reference ratio (90% confidence intervals) for AUC 0-t , AUC inf and C max were 105.5% (99.4, 112.0), 105.3% (99.3, 111.6) and 111.4% (100.4, 123.6), respectively. Adherence and skin irritability results of the two formulations were similar.
ConclusionThe two formulations are expected to result in similar efficacy for the management of severe pain.