EMPI Pursues New Uses For Iontophoretic Drug Delivery

Medical device manufacturer Empi, Inc. plans to launch a new iontophoretic drug delivery product called Dupel B.L.U.E. {Bilayer Ultra Electrode) in the first quarter of 1999.

Dupel B.L.U.E. is a new, high performance design that incorporates the safety and cost effectiveness of its predecessor, Dupel, while expanding available shapes and sizes. Dupel B.L.U.E. will first be marketed to Empi's existing orthopedic rehabilitation customer base, according to Joseph E. Laptewicz, Empi's president and chief executive officer.

"Dupel B.L.U.E.'s performance allows Empi to investigate additional clinical indications for the product and two studies are currently underway," Laptewicz said. "For dermatological procedures, the product is being investigated and shows promise for local anesthesia where site-specific delivery of lidocaine has advantages. This application is well along the clinical/regulatory pathway."

In preliminary research, Dupel B.L.U.E. showed potential for iontophoresis of cisplatin for the site-specific treatment of basal cell carcinoma. Empi has been working with investigators at the Medical University of South Carolina on oncological applications of iontophoresis.

About Iontophoresis

Iontophoresis is an alternative drug delivery system based on opening up cells and tissues with electricity. By applying a low-level electrical current to a similarly charged drug solution, iontophoresis repels the drug ions through the skin to the underlying tissue. In contrast to passive transdermal patch drug delivery, iontophoresis is an active (electrically driven) method that allows the delivery of water-soluble ionic drugs that are not effectively absorbed through the skin.

Iontophoresis is widely used for the delivery of corticosteroids in treating acute or sub-acute inflammatory conditions and acute flare-ups of chronic inflammatory conditions.

Drugs that could potentially be delivered using iontophoresis include topical and/or localized medications, water-soluble drugs, and positively or negatively charged molecules.

Benefits of Iontophoresis

• Reduces the risk of infection because the delivery technique is non-invasive
• Drug solutions are delivered directly to the treatment site without the disadvantages of injections or orally administered drugs
• Provides a relatively pain-free option for patients who are reluctant or unable to receive injections
• Minimizes the potential for further tissue trauma that can occur with increased pressure from a fluid bolus injection.
• Spares the body from systemic doses of drugs that are only needed locally.

For more information: Joseph E. Laptewicz, CEO, Empi, Inc., 599 Cardigan Rd. St. Paul, MN 55126. Tel: 651-415-9000. Fax: 651-415-7447.