Project Scope We solicited 6000 general surgeons who are part of our proprietary Expert Network to participate in an Exparel usage survey. We queried the physicians on their current and expected use of Exparel, and other treatments for postoperative pain. We received responses from 100 surgeons, 93 of whom routinely make decisions regarding postoperative pain management. We present results from the survey in this note.
Exparel Survey Results
On October 31, 2011, Pacira Pharmaceuticals (PCRX) received FDA approval for Exparel (bupivacaine liposome injectable suspension) 1.3% as an injectable treatment for postsurgical pain. The drug is intended as a non-opioid alternative for the management of pain associated with surgery. Exparel became available to hospitals and ambulatory care centers on April 9, 2012. Prescription data indicated sales of $151k in April sales and an impressive $638k in sales for May.
Overall, the surgeons in our survey reported conducting approximately 3,260 surgical procedures requiring pain management per month. Respondents perform an average of 35 such procedures per month. Out of 100 surgeons surveyed, 93 reported making decisions regarding postoperative pain management.
