FDA Stops Sale of Painkiller Palladone

By Erik Ricasa

Published on July 24, 2005

Palladone, a time-release version of painkiller hydromorphone, is designed to be taken once every 24 hours and slowly absorbed by the body. However, when combined with the ingestion of alcohol, the time-release feature of the drug can be defeated, causing large amounts of the narcotic to be released into the bloodstream at one time. Studies by the drug's maker, Purdue Pharma, predict that a fatal overdose could result.

Even though the label on Palladone already warn against mixing alcohol with the drug, the FDA feels that the dangers associated with this particular narcotic are too high to be left to chance. Officials will be meeting for talks with Purdue Pharma to find a solution to the dilemma.

To date, no serious incidents involving Palladone and alcohol have been reported; the FDA credits their swift movement and the novelty of the drug. Patients who are currently using Palladone may continue taking their current supply, but are urged to contact their physician to discuss other methods of pain management.

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