Comparison of the pharmacokinetics of MR-107A-02, a novel fast-acting formulation of meloxicam, versus standard meloxicam reference: a phase I study

MR-107A-02 is a novel faster dissolving oral formulation of meloxicam to provide rapid absorption and faster-onset of action in acute pain settings. This study compared the single-dose pharmacokinetics of MR-107A-02 tablets to reference meloxicam (Mobic®) tablets under fasting conditions. A single-dose, randomized, two-period crossover study was conducted at a single center in India. Healthy adult volunteers, aged 18 to 45 years, were randomized to receive a single, oral dose of 15 mg (1 × 15 mg) of MR-107A-02 or reference. Plasma samples were analyzed for meloxicam using LC-MS/MS. Pharmacokinetic parameters were derived using non-compartmental analysis, and 90% geometric confidence intervals for test/reference ratios were calculated. Safety was assessed through adverse event (AE) monitoring. 18 adult male volunteers were randomized and 16 completed the study. MR-107A-02 showed faster absorption, with a geometric mean Cmax value of 2734.342 (ng/mL) compared to reference 1592.102 (ng/mL) and a significantly shorter Tmax (hour) (0.958 vs 4.656). There were no AEs, or serious AEs reported. MR-107A-02 demonstrated more rapid absorption than reference, as evidenced by a higher Cmax, and shorter Tmax values. These findings highlight the potential utility of oralMR-107A-02's fast-release design in an acute pain setting.