Grunenthal to commence new Versatis clinical trial

Grunenthal is to carry out an international clinical trial for its lidocaine medicated plaster Versatis in a new specification next year.

The company will carry out a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial in 2013 that will involve several UK sites, with the aim of assessing the product as a means of treating chronic postoperative neuropathic pain.

A recent cohort study has suggested that the treatment is able to maintain patients' cognitive integrity, which can be impacted both by pain itself and also by systemic treatment options.

Currently, Versatis is licensed for the symptomatic relief of pain associated with previous herpes zoster infection, but Grunenthal believes it can also offer benefits to this new patient group, whose healthcare needs are currently underserved.

Dr Ollie Hart, a Sheffield GP with a special interest in pain management, said: "There is a real requirement for additional treatment options for patients with postoperative neuropathic pain."

Later this month, the company will be attending the BIO International Convention 2012, where it will present clinical data on a number of developmental compounds.