US-based biopharmaceutical company Galena Biopharma has launched the Abstral (fentanyl) sublingual tablets in the US for the treatment of breakthrough cancer pain.
The sublingual (under the tongue) fentanyl tablet has been designed for the treatment of breakthrough pain in cancer patients who are already receiving, and who are tolerant to, opioid therapy for their persistent baseline cancer pain.
Abstral, which, has received the US Food and Drug Administration approval can only be used in patients of age 18 years and above.
There is a risk of respiratory depression, medication errors, and abuse potential with the use of Abstral.
Galena Biopharma president and CEO Mark J. Ahn noted as an oncology company dedicated to improving patients' lives, the company is thrilled to introduce Abstral as its first commercial product and offer cancer patients relief from their breakthrough pain.
"We believe Abstral delivers best in class performance because it is simple to carry, simple to use, and requires no speacial handling or disposal.
"We have a commercial team of highly dedicated, patient-focused professionals with experience in both pain and oncology who have helped us reach this tremendous milestone for Galena. I look forward to reporting our continued progress later this year," Ahn added.
Abstral has been acquired by Galena Biopharma in March 2013.
