The generic name for Exparel is bupivacaine liposome [1].
What is Exparel used for?
Exparel is a long-acting local anesthetic used to manage postoperative pain [2]. It is injected at the surgical site to provide pain relief for an extended period after surgery, potentially reducing the need for opioid pain medications [2].
How does bupivacaine liposome work?
Bupivacaine liposome is a formulation of bupivacaine, a common local anesthetic, that is encapsulated in a lipid bilayer structure [3]. This liposomal encapsulation allows for the slow and sustained release of bupivacaine into the body [3]. This controlled release mechanism is what enables Exparel to provide pain relief for up to 72 hours after a single administration [2].
When does Exparel's patent expire?
Information regarding the patent expiry for Exparel can be found on DrugPatentWatch.com [4]. Patents for branded drugs are crucial as they grant market exclusivity for a defined period, preventing generic competition [4].
Are there generic alternatives to Exparel available?
As of now, there are no generic versions of Exparel approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The availability of generic alternatives is typically tied to the expiration of patents and exclusivity periods [4].
What are the clinical trial results for Exparel?
Clinical trials for Exparel have demonstrated its efficacy in reducing the need for opioid consumption and improving pain control in various surgical settings, including orthopedic procedures, abdominal surgery, and breast surgery [2][5]. Studies have shown a statistically significant reduction in pain scores and opioid use compared to placebo or immediate-release bupivacaine [5].
What are common side effects associated with Exparel?
Common side effects reported with Exparel include nausea, constipation, vomiting, and headache [2]. More serious side effects, though less common, can include allergic reactions and cardiovascular effects [2].
Who manufactures Exparel?
Exparel is manufactured by Pacira BioSciences, Inc. [6].
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Sources:
1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (n.d.). DailyMed. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=4682f86d-a13a-4a0c-b0a7-9171b877c994
2. Exparel. (n.d.). About EXPAREL. Retrieved from https://www.exparel.com/
3. Gan, T. J. (2010). Optimizing the use of liposomal bupivacaine for postoperative pain management. Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine, 35(1), 38-43.
4. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Exparel Patent Expiration. Retrieved from https://drugpatentwatch.com/ (Note: Specific URL for Exparel patents may vary. Users should search the site for "Exparel".)
5. Pacira BioSciences. (n.d.). Clinical Studies. Retrieved from https://www.pacira.com/ (Note: Specific URL for clinical studies may vary. Users should search the site for "Exparel clinical studies".)
6. Pacira BioSciences, Inc. (n.d.). Our Products. Retrieved from https://www.pacira.com/ (Note: Specific URL for product information may vary. Users should search the site for "Exparel".)