Oxymorphone Transdermal Patch Abuse-Resistant Delivery

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current transdermal opioid analgesic delivery systems face challenges such as opioid dependence and abuse due to their addictive nature and lack of effective abuse-resistant features, necessitating innovative approaches to reduce abuse potential while maintaining therapeutic efficacy.

Innovation Solution

A transdermal patch containing oxymorphone or its pharmaceutically acceptable salt, combined with a pressure-sensitive adhesive, is developed, featuring a drug-containing layer that diffuses oxymorphone into the skin, with a backing membrane and release liner for protection and application, and includes penetration enhancers and hydrophilic materials to optimize skin absorption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If transdermal opioid analgesic delivery systems are used, then pain relief efficacy is improved, but abuse potential and dependence risk increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepain relief efficacyVSAvoidabuse potential
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent converts the harmful property of oxymorphone (ability to cause euphoria and abuse) into a beneficial feature by using it as a flavoring agent in tobacco products. The same chemical compound that causes addiction when administered systemically is used in controlled amounts as a flavor component, transforming its harmful potential into a desirable sensory characteristic that attracts users without delivering analgesic effects.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

2Adaptability or versatility

If oxymorphone is used as a flavoring agent in tobacco products, then product appeal and consumer interest increase, but regulatory scrutiny and safety concerns increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduct appealVSAvoidregulatory scrutiny
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the concentration parameter of oxymorphone from therapeutic doses (milligram range for analgesia) to trace amounts (parts per million) suitable for flavoring. This parameter change transforms oxymorphone from a controlled substance with high abuse potential into a minor flavor component that provides sensory appeal without pharmacological effects, thereby reducing regulatory concerns while maintaining product attractiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The patch provides sustained analgesic effect while potentially reducing abuse risk through controlled oxymorphone release and improved skin permeation, addressing the limitations of existing opioid delivery systems.

Implementation Method 1

The oxymorphone diffuses or permeates into the skin over time to provide the desired analgesic effect

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiffusion: Diffusion

Implementation Method 2

a pharmaceutically acceptable pressure sensitive adhesive

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesion: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentEP3169317B1Oxymorphone transdermal patch
Publication Date: 2020.04.08 BUZZZ PHARMA
  • EP3169317B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3169317B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3169317B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention relates to a transdermal patch comprising oxymorphone. The present invention also relates to processes for the preparation of the transdermal patches defined herein, as well as to the use of these patches for the treatment of pain.