Scientists develop pain easing patch

Melbourne scientists have made a major breakthrough in the treatment of chronic pain.

Biotech company Phosphagenics has developed a patch that can deliver the drug Oxycodone, similar to morphine, which has only been available in tablet form.

Taking dozens of tablets a day will become a thing of the past, according to Anaesthetist, Professor Guy Ludbrood.

"What we believe is that if this drug fulfils its promise, and we are confident it will, you can take this once a day," he said.

With daily replacements it will keep pain at bay, day and night, for up to 10 days.

Early clinical trials of the patch have returned extremely positive results and so far there have been no side-effects.

Dr Esra Ogru from Phosphagenics said scientists have spent five years working on the patch.

"It's a world first," Dr Ogru said.

"People have tried to deliver Oxycodone before but failed."

The patch will undergo further trials before becoming available by prescription in around three years.

Read more about the company at www.phosphagenics.com.