British journal of clinical pharmacology
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Br J Clin Pharmacol · Jul 1998
Comparative StudyPulmonary administration of aerosolised fentanyl: pharmacokinetic analysis of systemic delivery.
Pulmonary drug delivery is a promising noninvasive method of systemic administration. Our aim was to determine whether a novel breath-actuated, microprocessor-controlled metered dose oral inhaler (SmartMist, Aradigm Corporation) could deliver fentanyl in a way suitable for control of severe pain. ⋯ Fentanyl delivery using SmartMist can provide analgetically relevant plasma drug concentrations. This, combined with its ease of noninvasive use and transportability, suggests a strong potential for field and domicilliary use, and for patient controlled analgesia without the need for i.v. cannulae.