| abstract |
The present invention provides compositions and methods for treating or preventing pain. The present invention provides a construct, whereby when taken orally as prescribed, the construct is hydrolyzed by designated gastrointestinal enzymes to release opioids directly or indirectly. Gastrointestinal enzyme-mediated release of opioids from the constructs of the present invention is designed to be attenuated in vivo by a saturation or inhibition mechanism when an overdose is ingested. The present invention further provides constructs that are highly resistant to oral overdose, chemical abuse, and abuse through parenteral routes of administration. |