The pharmacokinetics of a long-acting OROS hydromorphone formulation.

IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD: New formulations of opiods can provide round-the-clock pain relief to improve pain management and quality of life for patients with chronic pain. AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW: Information and comments on the pharmacokinetic processes associated with a new once-daily formulation of the potent opiod hydromorphone. WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN: This review presents an overview of data from several small pharmacokinetic studies to gain a better perspective on the pharmacokinetic properties of a new long-acting formulation of hydromorphone. TAKE HOME MESSAGE: The development of advanced oral formulation that deliver analgesic drugs over an extended period provides new solutions to improve pain management and quality of life for patients with chronic pain.