Palladone: Opioid-Based Pain Medication Approved

Palladone, an opioid-based drug from Purdue Pharma L.P., has been FDA approved for the management of persistent moderate to severe pain in patients requiring continuous around-the-clock opioid pain relief for an extended period of time. Purdue Pharma is the company which makes OxyContin, a controlled substance which has become a news-maker as an abused street drug, rather than for its intended therapeutic indication - pain management. Similar concerns are being expressed about the abuse potential for Palladone. Will the concern over abuse make it harder for people with legitimate medical need?

UPDATE: In July 2005, marketing of Palladone was suspended by the FDA citing potential for severe side effects if Palladone is taken with alcohol.