MedSpray 'Patch In A Can(R)' Technology Advances Towards Phase II Clinical Evaluation In Athlete's Foot

Main Category: Dermatology
Also Included In: Clinical Trials / Drug Trials
Article Date: 16 Nov 2007 - 12:00 PDT

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MedPharm has announced that its MedSpray™ technology is advancing into phase II clinical evaluation as a delivery system for an antifungal treatment. The planning and implementation stage is well underway and the aim is to dose patients in early 2008.

MedSpray™ provides a sprayable pharmaceutical formulation capable of forming a microthin film on topical administration on or in the skin. It has the dual advantages of being able to enhance and sustain the delivery of drugs whilst being easily removed, if required

MedPharm, which develops new concepts in drug delivery, is inviting pharmaceutical companies to make use of the technology. The company is looking for licensing partners who have a suitable drug as well as the financial resource to enable clinical development, registration, and marketing

In addition to its potential as a delivery vehicle for an antifungal, MedSpray™ is being developed for use with an anaesthetic. Talks with interested parties are progressing well and MedPharm is inviting further offers with regard to research agreements and investment.

As MedPharm CEO Andrew Muddle said: "What we are providing is an opportunity for companies out there to establish a real milestone in partnership with us. We have seen that the industry is hungry for new ideas in drug delivery, so we know that an effective dermal spray such as MedSpray holds a lot of potential."

He added: "MedSpray™ is composed of approved safe ingredients, so we have been able to reduce the safety testing required by the regulatory bodies in order to expedite clinical assessment which is a real advantage..

"With respect to anaesthetic usage, there is interesting data to show that we have a fast-acting anaesthetic delivery, effective in two or three minutes. As a delivery system for the treatment of athlete's foot we have some very positive results and are preparing for phase two clinical evaluation."

The aim of the Phase II study is to show efficacy with a short dosing regime, however one of the main advantages is the product's perceived 'elegance' which will make it more user friendly for patients. The MedSpray™ product produces a dry, transparent film which resides on the skin and does not require any further manipulation by the patient.

Further transdermal uses could include antihistamine delivery, hormone replacement therapy, nicotine delivery, angina treatments and nasal infections. Meanwhile local indications could include delivery of anti-inflammatories and treatment of psoriasis.

MedSpray™ is one of several new concepts to emerge from MedPharm's development centre in Guildford, which also include MedNail®, a patented nail penetration system, MedFoam™, for which patent application was recently submitted and a range of novel drug efficacy testing systems for clinical trials.

MedPharm is a specialist pharmaceutical development company that is recognized internationally, particularly for its expertise in topical (skin, nail, mucous membranes) and airway delivery systems. Established in 1999 and with over 60 customers worldwide, MedPharm has built a reputation for its unique and highly specialized service in contract research and development, together with expert project management.

The company has a substantial patent portfolio of novel drug delivery systems and is actively seeking to license out that intellectual property.

http://www.medpharm.co.uk