Oral extended-release oxymorphone: a new choice for chronic pain relief.
Opana ER (oxymorphone extended release [ER]) is a new oral long-acting formulation indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe chronic pain. Because the ER matrix slowly releases oxymorphone over 12 h, consistent plasma levels are produced with low peak-to-trough fluctuations. Oxymorphone ER is the only long-acting opioid that contains oxymorphone, which exhibits some distinct pharmacologic properties compared with most other opioids, including a longer half-life, higher affinity for the micro-opioid receptor, and lack of interaction with the CYPP450 drug-metabolizing system. With a safety and tolerability profile similar to other opioids and documented efficacy in several models of chronic pain (low back, cancer, and osteoarthritis), oxymorphone ER provides a new option for clinicians and patients in the treatment of chronic pain.
Arthritis and Rheumatism Associates, Wheaton, MD 20902, USA. akmatsumoto@arapc.com
Alan K
AK
Matsumoto
D000284:Administration, Oral; D000701:Analgesics, Opioid / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000818:Animals; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D004335:Drug and Narcotic Control; D006801:Humans; D010111:Oxymorphone / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy*; D018579:Patient Selection; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000701:Analgesics, Opioid; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D010111:Oxymorphone