Nalmefene Shows Promise in Reversing Fentanyl-Induced Respiratory Depression
• A new study indicates that intramuscular nalmefene is as effective as or more effective than intramuscular and intranasal naloxone in reversing fentanyl-induced respiratory depression.
• The research, sponsored by Imbrium Therapeutics, used a clinical opioid-induced respiratory depression (OIRD) model with healthy adult volunteers.
• Nalmefene demonstrated a longer duration of action compared to naloxone, maintaining a higher respiratory minute volume throughout the 90-minute observation period.
• The findings suggest nalmefene could be a valuable option for treating overdoses, especially those involving potent, long-acting synthetic opioids like fentanyl.
FDA Approves Zurnai Auto-Injector for Opioid Overdose Emergency Treatment
• The FDA has approved Zurnai (nalmefene hydrochloride) auto-injector for emergency treatment of known or suspected opioid overdose in adults and pediatric patients aged 12 years and older.
• Zurnai delivers 1.5 mg of nalmefene hydrochloride per actuation and is intended for immediate administration in settings where opioids may be present, but it is not a substitute for emergency medical care.
• Nalmefene is the longest-acting opioid antagonist approved for opioid overdose reversal, providing an additional option to address overdoses caused by both prescription and illicit synthetic opioids.
• Purdue Pharma L.P., the manufacturer of Zurnai, is committed to providing the auto-injector at no profit to the company, aiming to help address the opioid overdose crisis.
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