The duration of relief from an EXPAREL injection can vary. In some clinical studies, patients experienced pain relief for a median of 72 hours (three days) after a single administration [1]. Other trials have shown sustained pain relief for up to 14 days for certain surgical procedures [2]. The longevity of the effect depends on factors such as the type of surgery, the location of the injection, and the individual patient's pain experience [1][2].
When might EXPAREL be used?
EXPAREL is indicated for use as an interscalene brachial plexus nerve block to produce postsurgical analgesia for a duration of approximately 72 hours following shoulder surgery [1]. It is also used for patients who have undergone hemorrhoidectomy, providing pain relief for up to seven days [3]. Additionally, it is approved for patients undergoing foot surgery and is designed to provide pain control for approximately 72 hours [4]. For abdominal wall reconstruction, EXPAREL can provide pain relief for up to 72 hours [5].
How does EXPAREL work?
EXPAREL is a non-opioid local anesthetic that works by blocking nerve signals in the area where it is administered [6]. It is designed to release the active ingredient, bupivacaine, slowly over time [6]. This sustained release mechanism allows for prolonged pain relief without the need for repeated dosing [6]. The liposome encapsulation technology is key to this extended duration of action [6].
What are the potential risks of EXPAREL?
Like other anesthetic injections, EXPAREL carries potential risks. The most common side effects reported in clinical trials include constipation, nausea, vomiting, and headache [1][3][4][5]. Serious side effects, although rare, can occur and may include damage to the nerves or cartilage at the injection site [1][3][4][5]. Patients should discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider.
How does EXPAREL compare to other pain relief options?
EXPAREL offers a different approach to pain management compared to traditional opioids or shorter-acting local anesthetics [6]. Unlike opioids, EXPAREL is not associated with the same risks of addiction and respiratory depression [6]. Its prolonged duration of action can reduce the need for frequent opioid use post-surgery, potentially mitigating opioid-related side effects and dependency [6]. Compared to bupivacaine without liposome encapsulation, EXPAREL provides significantly longer-lasting pain relief from a single injection [6].
Who makes EXPAREL?
EXPAREL is manufactured by Pacira BioSciences, Inc. [7].
How long does EXPAREL stay in your system?
Information regarding the complete elimination of EXPAREL from the body is not typically provided in patient-facing materials, as the focus is on its duration of therapeutic effect. The bupivacaine component is metabolized by the liver and excreted over time, but the liposome delivery system influences the release and therefore the duration of pain relief rather than the rate of systemic clearance of the active drug.
Sources:
[1] https://www.exparel.com/
[2] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/blog/2023/09/20/patient-questions-about-exparel-injections/
[3] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/blog/2023/07/27/exparel-for-hemorrhoidectomy-pain-relief/
[4] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/blog/2023/09/13/what-patients-need-to-know-about-exparel-for-foot-surgery/
[5] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/blog/2023/09/06/exparel-for-abdominal-wall-reconstruction-pain/
[6] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/bupivacaine/exparel
[7] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/manufacturer/pacira-biosciences