| abstract |
The present invention provides novel compositions for the delivery of a 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) agonist across the oral mucosa. In particular, the buffer system in the compositions of the present invention raises the pH of saliva to a pH greater than about 9.9, thereby facilitating the substantially complete conversion of the 5-HT agonist from its ionized to its un-ionized form. As a result, the dose of 5-HT agonist is rapidly and efficiently absorbed by the oral mucosa. Furthermore, delivery of the 5-HT agonist across the oral mucosa advantageously bypasses hepatic first pass metabolism of the drug and avoids enzymatic degradation of the drug within the gastrointestinal tract. Methods for using the compositions of the present invention for treating migraines are also provided. |