A. Fujimura et al., PHARMACOKINETICS AND PHARMACODYNAMICS OF A NEW TRANSDERMAL CLONIDINE,M-5041T, IN HEALTHY-SUBJECTS, Journal of clinical pharmacology, 33(12), 1993, pp. 1192-1200
The pharmacokinetic as well as the pharmacodynamic properties of a new
transdermal clonidine, M-5041T (M), and its safety were evaluated aft
er single and repeated applications. In the single-application study,
one patch of M (4 mg --> 6 mg --> 8 mg) was applied for 3 days in eigh
t healthy subjects. In the repeated-application study, first (0-72 hou
rs), second (72-144 hours), and third (144-216 hours) patches of M 6 m
g were applied in seven healthy subjects. In the single-application st
udy, plasma clonidine concentration increased in a dose-dependent mann
er after application of M. Maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and are
a under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) increased in a dose-
dependent manner, but the difference did not reach significance. Time
to maximum concentration, elimination half-life, and total and renal c
learance did not differ significantly among three trials. Blood pressu
re (BP) decreased gradually after application of each dose of M. The B
P-lowering effect of M 8 mg was greater than that of M 4 mg and 6 mg.
Adverse effects such as erythema and drowsiness were reported in some
subjects. No subject had to be withdrawn from the study because of the
appearance of adverse effects. In the repeated-application study, pla
sma concentration of clonidine increased up to 48 hours after applicat
ion of first patch, and thereafter remained within a relatively narrow
range until removal of third patch. The Cmax and AUC did not differ s
ignificantly among three trials. Blood pressure during an active perio
d decreased significantly during treatment with M, whereas BP at midni
ght did not change significantly. Two subjects complained of orthostat
ic vertigo caused by hypotension and were dropped out of the study. Mi
ld erythema and systemic adverse effects were reported. These results
suggest that M is a promising tool for the treatment of hypertension w
ithout unacceptable skin reactions. Orthostatic change in BP should be
monitored carefully during treatment with M.