Phosphagenics commences TPM/oxymorphone trial

Phosphagenics (ASX:POH) has commenced dosing for a phase I multidose trial of pain patch TPM/oxymorphone.

The trial will involve 12 healthy volunteers who will undergo patch rotation every three days. The trial’s primary endpoint will be to evaluate safety.

Results from the study are expected by the end of the December quarter. They will be used to help inform the design of a phase II trial scheduled to commence in the first half of next year.

Phosphagenics said data from phase II trials will be used to seek partnering opportunities for the product.

TPM/oxymorphone is aimed at the $6 billion chronic pain market based on extended-release opioids.

The oxymorphone-based patch uses Phosphagenics’ Targeted Penetration Matrix drug delivery technology.

Phosphagenics is further developing a pain patch based on another opioid, oxycodone. TPM/oxycodone has been through phase I trials and is also due to enter phase II in 1H14.

The company is also using its TPM technology for topical anti-inflammation product TPM/diclofenac. In April, Phosphagenics revealed it had commenced licensing negotiations with Japan’s Nippon Zoki Pharmaceutical.

Phosphagenics (ASX:POH) shares were trading 2.17% higher at $0.094 as of around 1 pm on Thursday.