Norspan

Norspan is a transdermal patch formulation of buprenorphine, a semi-synthetic opioid analgesic. Developed and marketed by Mundipharma, it is primarily indicated for the management of moderate to severe chronic pain that does not respond adequately to non-opioid analgesics. Buprenorphine exerts its effects through a complex pharmacological profile, acting as a partial agonist at the mu-opioid receptor and an antagonist at the kappa-opioid receptor. This partial agonism at the mu receptor is associated with a ceiling effect for respiratory depression, potentially offering a better safety profile than full mu-agonists. The Norspan patch utilizes a matrix-type transdermal system to provide continuous delivery of buprenorphine over a seven-day period. In South Korea, Mundipharma has specifically investigated Norspan in the PASSION study for the management of prolonged postoperative pain following spinal surgery, comparing its efficacy and safety to oral tramadol/acetaminophen combinations.

Brand names

NorspanBuTransRestiva

Other names

buprenorphine transdermal systembuprenorphine patch