[Outcomes of an Independent Clinical Study to Compare Branded and Generic Formulations of Sustained-Release...

To evaluate the potential for the adoption of a generic formulation of sustained-release oxycodone(Oxycodone SR Capsules), an independent clinical study was planned to accurately evaluate the efficacy and safety during a 9-day period. After a 3-day pretreatment period, the generic formulation was administered to patients with progressive cancer, who had been treated with a branded formulation(OxyContin®Tablets)of the drug for 5 days at the same dose. This was followed by a 1- day observation period. Drug administration to 3 patients with pulmonary cancer achieved the primary(dose, pain level, and adverse drug reactions)and secondary(rescue dose frequency and quality of life)endpoints, as well as safety goals. The merits of adopting a different dosage form were also noted. Independent data collection using an appropriate evaluation method consequently promoted the understanding of generic opioids in the clinical setting.