BioDelivery Sciences International has announced the results of a 12 subject, crossover study comparing the absorption of fentanyl from both single and multiple BEMA, Fentanyl discs, as well as oral and intravenous doses of fentanyl.
The data demonstrates that the absolute bioavailability (i.e. the total amount absorbed from the delivery system) of fentanyl through the BEMA disc was more than 70%, with 50% absorbed through the buccal mucosa (the inner lining of the cheek). The study further demonstrates that equal doses administered as either a single disc or multiple discs produced nearly identical plasma concentrations (i.e. two 200 mcg discs provided nearly equivalent plasma concentrations as one 400 mcg disc, etc.)
These findings follow the Company's April 25, 2007 announcement of statistically significant results with BEMA Fentanyl in treating cancer patients with breakthrough pain in the company's Phase III efficacy clinical trial. BDSI plans to include today's study results, the efficacy trial results and other materials in its planned submission of a New Drug Application (NDA) to the FDA for BEMA Fentanyl. The NDA submission is expected during third quarter of 2007.
BEMA Fentanyl consists of a small, dissolvable polymer disc, formulated with the opioid narcotic fentanyl, for application to the buccal membranes. Upon administration, BEMA Fentanyl is designed to deliver a rapid, reliable dose of drug across mucous membranes. BEMA Fentanyl is being developed for the treatment of "breakthrough" cancer pain (i.e. episodes of severe pain which "break through" the medication already in use to control the persistent pain).