|
Zogenix has touted the benefits of its long-lasting pill, which only needs to be taken once every 12 hours, compared with every four to six hours for combination drugs like Vicodin. The company also notes that patients taking pure hydrocodone would not be at risk for acetaminophen-related liver side effects. Panel Chairman Randall Flick of the Mayo Clinic abstained from voting, but suggested Zogenix might reformulate the drug to make it more difficult to abuse. Drug abusers often crush or dissolve pills in liquid to unlock their extended release mechanism and get an intense high. "It is my view that tamper-resistant formulations are likely to reduce the incidence of morbidity and mortality associated with this class of drugs," Flick said. In recent years the FDA has begun prodding drugmakers to develop more sophisticated pain relievers that are harder to abuse, but such measures are not a requirement. Zogenix said it would focus sales on 15 percent of the 330,000 U.S. health professionals who prescribe high-strength prescription painkillers. The company said it would to monitor prescribing patterns and visit physicians who appear to be writing more prescriptions than normal. Shares of San Diego-based Zogenix were halted ahead of the meeting and last traded at $2.36.
[Associated
Press;
Copyright 2012 The Associated
Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published,
broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
News | Sports | Business | Rural Review | Teaching & Learning | Home and Family | Tourism | Obituaries
Community |
Perspectives
|
Law & Courts |
Leisure Time
|
Spiritual Life |
Health & Fitness |
Teen Scene
Calendar
|
Letters to the Editor