Transdermal Pain Management Forecast to Grow 16% Annually

(Nashua, NH) – Led by new market entries of existing pain drugs and promising candidates representing new API’s, prescription transdermal patches and gels for pain management are positioned for double-digit growth over the next four years, according to a comprehensive assessment from Applied Data Research. Responding to the simplified dosing, reduced side effects and relative safety of transdermal pain patches and gels, more than two dozen drug developers - either independently or in partnership - are investing in the clinical development of a diverse range of pain drugs that can be delivered through the skin.

While competition among fentanyl patch suppliers has become fierce, with five new generic patches approved by FDA in the last three years, the level of activity for other pain APIs has a distinct geographic component. Alpharma’s Flector diclofenac patch exceeded analysts’ estimates in 2008, its first full year of FDA approval, while in Latin America and Europe, Amarin’s diclofenac TDS continues to become available in a growing list of countries. Sales of buprenorphine patches for treating pain are growing at 16 percent annually in Europe, while in North America there currently no FDA approved transdermal buprenorphine patch indicated for pain. Pipeline pain patches that will enter the market over the next three years include products based on bupivacaine, dexamethasone. ketoprofen, and capsaicin.

"The demographics driving prescribing trends in pain management are compelling," explains David Smith, Applied Data market analyst. "In developed economies, adults are living longer than their parents, and are smarter about the benefits of leading an active lifestyle, resulting in increased incidence of pain associated with disease, and muscle and joint injuries." Pipeline small molecule drugs currently in clinical trials will provide expanded options to caregivers and present significant business opportunities to active participants in this sector.

A recently completed analysis of global markets for transdermal pain management, researched and written by Applied Data Research, examines current and future demand and provides forecasts by drug/product class and region.

More information is also available at www.applieddata.org .

About Applied Data

Applied Data Research is a healthcare therapeutics consulting firm focused on medical market strategies, product commercialization, venture development, and market research. We assist medical market participants in achieving their business objectives through the creation of detailed business development strategies, product commercialization programs, and comprehensive market and technology research and analysis.

Contact:
Greg Stone
Voice: 603-595-6225
www.applieddata.org

Source: Applied Data Research