RAD100 is a new gel under development which is designed to provide rapid local anaesthesia prior to injection, vaccination or cannulation. The impressive results seen in our Phase I study of PET500, which used a low dose of a topical anaesthetic compound, prompted us to explore the potential of using the same concept to provide rapid topical anaesthesia prior to injection, vaccination or cannulation. Demand in this market is already well developed but poorly served with treatments taking at least one hour to take effect. We believe that there is clear commercial potential for a product in which the speed of onset of skin desensitisation is significantly faster.
In early in vitro work already completed, we have shown a 250% increase in the rate of permeation of a topical anaesthetic across the skin using RAD100 and our DermaSys® AquaFree delivery system when compared with an established product. This substantial increase in skin permeation is expected to equate to a more rapid onset of skin desensitisation compared to existing products.
RAD100 has attracted interest from potential commercial partners and we intend to progress development of the product during 2010.