Evaluation of methadone absorption after topical administration to hospice patients.

Context: Increased use of methadone (MTD) applied topically as an extemporaneously compounded gel was documented on routine review of medication profiles of hospice patients. A literature search did not identify any published clinical studies assessing the systemic absorption or clinical efficacy of MTD administered topically to intact skin for systemic pain.

Objectives: To compare serum MTD levels achieved after topical and oral administration to hospice patients.