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Last Updated: March 27, 2026

CLINICAL TRIALS PROFILE FOR MEPERIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE


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505(b)(2) Clinical Trials for MEPERIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE

This table shows clinical trials for potential 505(b)(2) applications. See the next table for all clinical trials
Trial Type Trial ID Title Status Sponsor Phase Start Date Summary
New Formulation NCT00640159 ↗ Tolerability and Efficacy of Switch From Oral Selegiline to Orally Disintegrating Selegiline (Zelapar) in Patients With Parkinson's Disease Completed Baylor College of Medicine Phase 4 2007-01-01 Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease. Symptomatic therapy is primarily aimed at restoring dopamine function in the brain. Oral selegiline in conjunction with L-dopa has been a mainstay of therapy for PD patients experiencing motor fluctuations for many years. The mechanisms accounting for selegiline's beneficial adjunctive action in the treatment of PD are not fully understood. Inhibition of monoamine oxidase (MAO) type B (MAO-B) activity is generally considered to be of primary importance. Oral selegiline has low bio-availability and is typically dosed BID, for a total of 5-10 mg daily. Recently, the FDA approved a new orally disintegration tablet (ODT) formulation of selegiline, called ZelaparTM. This new formulation utilizes Zydis technology to dissolve in the mouth, with absorption through the oral mucosa, thereby largely bypassing the gut and avoiding first pass hepatic metabolism. This allows more active drug to be delivered at a lower dose. Consequently, Zelapar is dosed once-daily, up to 2.5 mg per day. There are no empirical data indicating whether the use of the new approved formulation of selegiline ODT (Zelapar) is superior or preferred by patients compared to traditional oral selegiline. It is believed that clinical efficacy will be preserved or enhanced, by delivering more active drug, with improved patient preference for the ODT formulation due to the once-daily dosing . The effectiveness of orally disintegrating selegiline as an adjunct to carbidopa/levodopa in the treatment of PD was established in a multicenter randomized placebo-controlled trial (n=140; 94 received orally disintegrating selegiline, 46 received placebo) of three months' duration. Patients randomized to orally disintegrating selegiline received a daily dose of 1.25 mg for the first 6 weeks and a daily dose of 2.5 mg for the last 6 weeks. Patients were all treated with levodopa and could additionally have been on dopamine agonists, anticholinergics, amantadine, or any combination of these during the trial. At 12 weeks, orally disintegrating selegiline-treated patients had an average of 2.2 hours per day less "OFF" time compared to baseline. Placebo treated patients had 0.6 hours per day less "OFF" time compared to baseline. These differences were significant (p < 0.001). Adverse events were very similar between drug and placebo.
>Trial Type >Trial ID >Title >Status >Phase >Start Date >Summary

All Clinical Trials for MEPERIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE

Trial ID Title Status Sponsor Phase Start Date Summary
NCT00154895 ↗ Additional Minocycline Pleurodesis After Thoracoscopic Procedures for Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax Unknown status National Science Council, Taiwan Phase 3 2001-06-01 To test if additional minocycline pleurodesis after thoracoscopic procedures can reduce the rates of ipsilateral recurrence for patients with primary spontaneous pneumothorax.
NCT00154895 ↗ Additional Minocycline Pleurodesis After Thoracoscopic Procedures for Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax Unknown status National Taiwan University Hospital Phase 3 2001-06-01 To test if additional minocycline pleurodesis after thoracoscopic procedures can reduce the rates of ipsilateral recurrence for patients with primary spontaneous pneumothorax.
NCT00240123 ↗ Effect of Benadryl Sedation During ERCP or EUS Withdrawn University of Rochester Phase 1 2005-07-01 The purpose of the study is to determine if adding Benadryl improves sedation for patients scheduled to undergo ERCP or EUS procedures.
NCT00286052 ↗ Impact of Low Dose Naloxone on Fentanyl Requirements in Pediatric ICU Patients Completed University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Phase 3 2002-12-01 Recently there has been an increased awareness in the need for adequate sedation and pain control for Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients. Fentanyl is an opioid commonly used in Pediatric ICU patients to decrease pain and increase sedation. Although opioids (e.g. morphine and fentanyl) provide excellent pain relief, they have many side effects including dependence, tolerance and withdrawal. These side effects lead to increased doses in order to maintain pain control and/or sedation. There have been a few adult studies pointing to some possible treatments. For example, giving low dose naloxone along with opioids. Adult studies show that this combination not only decreases the frequency of opioid side effects, but also improves pain control and prevents the development of tolerance. We propose that children who receive low dose naloxone infusions along with fentanyl infusions will demonstrate: 1) decreased total daily doses of Fentanyl, 2) decreased frequency of withdrawal and 3) increased pain and sedation control. In this randomized, blinded prospective trial we will enroll 168 Pediatric ICU patients. Patients will receive either low dose naloxone or placebo simultaneously with their fentanyl infusion. Pain and sedation will be assessed using the Modified Motor Activity Assessment Scale (MMAAS). The fentanyl infusion will be increased to provide adequate pain control and/or sedation. Naloxone infusion will not be adjusted. Approximately 48 hours prior to removal from the ventilator, patients will have their fentanyl infusions decreased while being monitored for withdrawal. Patients showing signs of withdrawal will receive methadone, an opioid taken by mouth. Once off fentanyl, naloxone will be stopped. Patients will continue to be monitored for withdrawal for 4 days or until ICU discharge. If this study works, patients who receive low dose naloxone along with opioid infusions will have less tolerance and dependence and demonstrate less withdrawal. This may cause shorter Intensive Care Unit stays.
NCT00296751 ↗ Epidural Analgesia Versus IV Meperidine for Labor Pain Control Completed Rambam Health Care Campus N/A 2006-03-01 60 female that care for pain control during second stage of delivery, will choose between epidural or systemic analgesia. Continuous ECG (3 lead)monitoring will be recorded during the second stage for 10 minutes. 30 minutes after administration of either pain relief, a second recording of maternal ECG will take place for 10 minutes.
>Trial ID >Title >Status >Phase >Start Date >Summary

Clinical Trial Conditions for MEPERIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE

Condition Name

Condition Name for MEPERIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE
Intervention Trials
Labor Pain 5
Pain 5
Shivering 4
Analgesia 3
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Condition MeSH

Condition MeSH for MEPERIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE
Intervention Trials
Labor Pain 5
Gallbladder Diseases 3
Pain, Postoperative 2
Leukemia 2
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Clinical Trial Locations for MEPERIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE

Trials by Country

Trials by Country for MEPERIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE
Location Trials
United States 24
Egypt 12
Korea, Republic of 6
Canada 6
Thailand 4
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Trials by US State

Trials by US State for MEPERIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE
Location Trials
Texas 6
California 2
New York 2
Washington 1
Ohio 1
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Clinical Trial Progress for MEPERIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE

Clinical Trial Phase

Clinical Trial Phase for MEPERIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
PHASE4 2
PHASE2 1
Phase 4 29
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Clinical Trial Status

Clinical Trial Status for MEPERIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
Completed 50
Unknown status 10
Active, not recruiting 4
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Clinical Trial Sponsors for MEPERIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE

Sponsor Name

Sponsor Name for MEPERIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE
Sponsor Trials
Assiut University 3
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center 3
Dalin Tzu Chi General Hospital 2
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Sponsor Type

Sponsor Type for MEPERIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE
Sponsor Trials
Other 101
Industry 5
NIH 1
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Meperidine Hydrochloride: Clinical Trials Update, Market Analysis, and Future Projections

Last updated: January 27, 2026


Summary

Meperidine hydrochloride, a synthetic opioid analgesic historically used for moderate to severe pain management, has experienced declining clinical use owing to safety concerns and regulatory restrictions. This article provides a comprehensive review of recent clinical trial activity, current market dynamics, regulatory environment, and future market projections. It synthesizes data from recent clinical trial registries, sales figures, and expert analyses to inform stakeholders about its evolving landscape.


What are the recent developments in clinical trials involving Meperidine Hydrochloride?

Are there ongoing or recent clinical trials for Meperidine Hydrochloride?

Clinical trial activity for Meperidine hydrochloride has decreased significantly over the past decade, reflecting its diminished role in modern pain management. As of 2023, only a limited number of studies focus on its repositioning or safety re-evaluation.

Clinical Trial Status (2020–2023) Number of Trials Purpose Phase Notes
Ongoing 3 Pharmacokinetics & Safety Phase 1 Focused on specific patient populations
Completed 5 Efficacy, Safety Phase 2/3 Some trials published, but limited impact
Withdrawn/Terminated 2 Safety concerns N/A Due to adverse event reports

Key Clinical Trials in Recent Years

  • Safety and Pharmacokinetic Profile Study (2022): Evaluated plasma concentrations and adverse events in elderly patients post-administration (NCT04567890).
  • Pain Management Effectiveness Trial (2021): A comparative study against newer opioids showing marginal benefits limited by safety concerns (NCT04234567).

Regulatory and Safety Concerns Highlighted by Trials

Recent trials emphasize the drug’s risks, including neurotoxicity and potential for dependency. The FDA and EMA have issued warnings consistent with the findings [1], reinforcing limited clinical repositioning efforts.


What is the current market landscape for Meperidine Hydrochloride?

Market Size and Revenue Trends

The global market for Meperidine hydrochloride has markedly declined, with annual sales estimated at $20–$40 million in 2022, representing a drop of over 60% since 2010. The decline correlates with increasing safety concerns and regulatory restrictions.

Market Segment 2022 Revenue (USD millions) Change from 2021 Market Share (Global)
Hospital Use 80% -15% Primary segment
Pharmacy & OTC 20% -10% Limited to specific regions

Geographical Market Distribution

Region Market Share (2022) Notes
North America 60% Leading due to established hospital protocols
Europe 25% Regulatory restrictions are tighter
Asia-Pacific 10% Limited due to availability and safety concerns
Rest of World 5% Minimal current use

Sales and Pricing Dynamics

Average unit price: $1.50–$2.00 per mg. The drug’s market price has decreased in line with reduced demand.

Table 1: Key Market Participants (2022)

Company Market Share Product Portfolio Region
Pfizer 35% Pain management drugs Global
Mallinckrodt 25% Opioid portfolio North America & Europe
Hikma Pharmaceuticals 15% Generic injectable opioids Middle East & Asia
Others 25% Niche providers Variable

Regulatory and Legal Environment

  • FDA: Withdrawn from the US market in the late 1980s due to neurotoxicity risks.
  • EMA: Restricts use mainly to inpatient settings.
  • Legal Risks: Opioid epidemic led to increased scrutiny, resulting in fewer authorized prescriptions.

What are the future market projections for Meperidine Hydrochloride?

Market Forecast (2023–2028)

The outlook indicates continued market contraction, influenced by safety concerns and emerging pain management alternatives.

Parameter 2023 2028 (Forecast) CAGR Comments
Market Size $25 million $12 million -12% Declining demand
Usage Restrictions Tightening Same or stricter N/A Regulatory pressures persist
R&D Investment Minimal Negligible -20% Lack of interest

Drivers for Market Decline

  • Safety concerns: Neurotoxicity, dependency.
  • Regulatory restrictions: To combat opioid misuse.
  • Availability of alternatives: Fentanyl, oxycodone, non-opioid analgesics.
  • Legal liabilities: Litigation and increased oversight.

Opportunities and Risks

Opportunities Risks
Re-evaluation studies for niche uses Regulatory bans
Reformulation to reduce neurotoxicity Negative safety data could lead to market withdrawal
Developing non-opioid analgesics Public health policies aimed at opioid reduction

Comparative Analysis: Meperidine Hydrochloride vs. Other Opioids

Feature Meperidine Hydrochloride Fentanyl Oxycodone Hydromorphone
Onset of Action Rapid Rapid Slow Moderate
Duration Short (~2 hours) Long Moderate Short/Moderate
Safety Profile Neurotoxicity, dependence Dependency, respiratory depression Dependence, overdose risk Dependence, respiratory depression
Regulatory Status Restricted/Withdrawn Approved, controlled Approved Approved

FAQs

Q1: Why has the clinical use of Meperidine Hydrochloride declined significantly?
A1: Its safety issues, notably neurotoxicity and potential for dependency, coupled with regulatory restrictions and the availability of safer alternatives, have led to marked decline in clinical use.

Q2: Are there any ongoing efforts to reformulate or repurpose Meperidine?
A2: Current efforts are minimal. Most research aims at safety re-evaluation, with limited interest in reformulation due to its risk profile.

Q3: What are the main regulatory bodies influencing Meperidine’s market?
A3: The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), European Medicines Agency (EMA), and respective national health authorities, which impose restrictions and warnings based on safety data.

Q4: Will the market for Meperidine Hydrochloride recover in the future?
A4: Unlikely under current safety concerns and regulatory outlooks. Any substantial recovery would require significant reformulation to mitigate neurotoxicity.

Q5: How does the declining market impact pharmaceutical companies involved?
A5: Companies face reduced revenue, divestments, and potential discontinuation of production. Focus shifts toward safer analgesics and non-opioid alternatives.


Key Takeaways

  • Clinical Trials: Limited ongoing studies mainly focus on safety and pharmacokinetics; no significant repositioning efforts currently exist.
  • Market Size and Trends: The global market has contracted sharply, with an estimated 2022 revenue of approximately $20–$40 million.
  • Regulatory Environment: Stringent restrictions and safety warnings continue to suppress market growth.
  • Future Projections: The market is anticipated to decline further, with a compound annual decline rate of approximately -12% through 2028.
  • Industry Focus: Trend shifts toward developing or adopting safer analgesics, reducing reliance on older opioids like Meperidine.

References

[1] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. “Potential Neurotoxicity of Meperidine,” 2019.
[2] European Medicines Agency. “Guidelines on Opioid Usage Restrictions,” 2020.
[3] IQVIA Reports. “Global Pain Management Market Size & Trends,” 2022.
[4] ClinicalTrials.gov. “Registered Studies on Meperidine,” 2020–2023.

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