Because of the ability of transdermal formulations to deliver pain medication consistently and unobtrusively with minimal side effects, a range of companies are pursuing the transdermal route for a number of generic analgesics, which is in turn taking a toll on the margins of companies already in the market, according to the release. For example, with the loss of patent protection for Johnson & Johnson’s Duragesic fentanyl brand, the number of available fentanyl patches on the market rose for three in 2006 to seven by 2009. During this time the dollar value of Duragesic sales in North America fell by almost fifty percent, according to the release.
Greystone found that the trend is not limited to the United States, as many players in the European market are feeling more intense competition.
Also adding to increased competition are transdermal versions of a number of analgesics, including bupivacaine, ketoprofen and dexamethasone, which are being developed. The aging population in developed economies is driving the demand for better pain management drugs as well as conditions such as osteoarthritis, according to the release.
Read Greystone’s release on the global transdermal medication market.
