Exparel is a long-acting local anesthetic used to manage post-operative pain [1]. It is administered by injection directly into the surgical site [1].
How does Exparel work for pain relief?
Exparel's mechanism of action involves the use of SOMA-470, a liposome encapsulation technology, which allows for the slow release of bupivacaine, the active anesthetic [2]. This sustained release over 72 hours or more [3] provides prolonged analgesia compared to traditional local anesthetics that are quickly metabolized [4]. The liposomes protect the bupivacaine from rapid degradation and absorption, enabling a steady diffusion of the drug into surrounding tissues [2].
What conditions is Exparel approved to treat?
Exparel is approved for a range of surgical procedures. It is indicated for post-operative analgesia following orthopedic procedures, such as total knee arthroplasty and total hip arthroplasty [1]. It is also used for management of post-operative pain following open or minimally invasive abdominal surgery [1]. Additionally, Exparel is indicated for intercostal nerve block for surgical anesthesia and perioperative pain relief [5].
How long does Exparel's pain relief last?
The duration of pain relief provided by Exparel can extend beyond 72 hours for many patients [3]. This extended effect is a key differentiator from shorter-acting anesthetics [3]. The exact duration can vary depending on the individual patient, the type of surgery, and the location of administration [4].
What are the side effects associated with Exparel?
Common side effects reported with Exparel include constipation, nausea, vomiting, headache, fever, and fatigue [1]. More serious side effects can occur, such as neurological and cardiovascular reactions associated with the bupivacaine content [1]. These can include dizziness, nervousness, blurred vision, tremors, and changes in heart rate or blood pressure [1]. It is important for healthcare providers to be aware of these potential risks during administration [1].
Who manufactures Exparel?
Exparel is manufactured by Pacira BioSciences, Inc. [1].
When does Exparel's patent protection expire?
Information regarding specific patent expiry dates for Exparel can be found on specialized patent tracking websites [6]. The patent landscape for branded pharmaceuticals is complex, involving multiple patents covering the drug substance, formulation, and methods of use [6].
How does Exparel compare to other pain management options?
Exparel offers a distinct advantage in providing prolonged post-operative pain relief with a single injection, potentially reducing the need for opioids [4]. Traditional local anesthetics provide shorter-lived pain control [4]. Opioid analgesics are also commonly used for post-operative pain but carry risks of addiction, respiratory depression, and constipation [7]. Non-opioid medications like NSAIDs and acetaminophen are also part of multimodal pain management strategies [7]. Exparel fits into this multimodal approach by providing a foundational level of analgesia that can be supplemented with other agents [4].
What is the cost of Exparel?
The cost of Exparel can vary significantly depending on insurance coverage, geographic location, and the healthcare facility [8]. As a specialized long-acting injectable, its price point is generally higher than traditional short-acting local anesthetics [8].
Are there alternatives to Exparel for post-operative pain?
Alternatives to Exparel include traditional local anesthetics, various classes of oral pain medications (NSAIDs, acetaminophen, opioids), and regional anesthesia techniques [7]. The choice of pain management strategy is individualized based on the patient's pain severity, surgical procedure, medical history, and risk factors [7].
Sources:
[1] https://www.exparel.com/
[2] https://drugpatentwatch.com/
[3] https://drugpatentwatch.com/
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4128654/
[5] https://www.healio.com/news/anesthesiology/20190306/exparel-approved-for-intercostal-nerve-block-for-surgical-anesthesia-and-perioperative-pain-relief
[6] https://drugpatentwatch.com/
[7] https://www.asahq.org/when-seconds-count/resources/patient-information/pain-management
[8] https://www.goodrx.com/exparel