| abstract |
The present invention provides a novel composition for the delivery of hypnotics via the oral mucosa. In particular, the buffer system in the composition according to the present invention raises the pH of saliva to a pH above about 7.8, so that the hypnotic is substantially completely converted from its ionized form to its deionized form. Promote conversion. As a result, the hypnotic dose is absorbed quickly and effectively by the oral mucosa with surprisingly low patient-to-patient variability. In addition, the delivery of hypnotic agents through the oral mucosa advantageously bypasses the hepatic first pass metabolism of the drug and avoids enzymatic degradation of the drug in the gastrointestinal cavity. Also provided are methods of using the compositions according to the present invention for treating sleep disorders such as insomnia. |