The Zelrix patch is a totally new approach. The patch uses iontophoresis, is a method that transports the sumatriptan molecules through the skin by means of a mild electrical current. This transdermal delivery avoids the gastric system and the problems of nausea, vomiting, and gastric stasis.
Some online articles and blogs have stated that it takes Zelrix two hours to work. That is incorrect and is a misinterpretation of the trial's two-hour pain-free measurement. Zelrix has been show to work as quickly as sumatriptan tablets, nasal spray, or subcutaneous injections.
Having a new, more effective delivery system for sumatriptan will be a valuable tool for Migraine sufferers. In the end, however, it is still another use of an old medication, not a new medication.
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Resources:
1 Goldstein J.; Pugach N.; Smith T.; Nett R.; Angelov A. S.; Pierce M. W. "Acute anti-migraine efficacy and tolerability of Zelrix , a novel iontophoretic transdermal patch of sumatriptan." Research Abstract. 14th International Headache Congress. Philadelphia. September, 2009.
2 Research Poster. "Sumatriptan Iontophoresis." 14th International Headache Congress. September, 2009.
3 Research Poster. "Transdermal: Iontophoresis." 14th International Headache Congress. September, 2009.
4 Mark Pierce, MD, PhD; Thomas Marbury, MD; Carol O’Neill, BA; Steven Siegel, MD, PhD;Wei Du, PhD; Terri Sebree, BA. "Zelrix™: A Novel Transdermal Formulation of Sumatriptan." Headache 2009;49:817-825.
5 Press Release. "Migraine Treatment Candidate Meets the Five Key Efficacy Endpoints." NuPathe. Conshohocken, Pennyslvania. August 11, 2009.
6 Press Release. "Zelrix, a Novel Transdermal Patch for Migraine, Found to Provide Rapid, Consistent, and Sustained Relief for Migraine Sufferers in Phase III Trial." NuPathe, Inc. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. September 10, 2009.
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© Teri Robert, 2009. Last updated September 28, 2009.
