Methods for treating post-operative effects such as spasticity and shivering with clondine

A composition useful for the treatment of post-operative spasticity and/or shivering comprising an effective amount of clonidine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof that is capable of being administered to a post-operative surgery site.

A sustain release composition comprising an effective amount of clonidine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof in an implantable drug depot, wherein said clonidine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof is present in an amount to relieve post-operative spasticity and/or shivering for a period of 5-12 days and wherein said implantable drug depot facilitates sustain release of clonidine over said period.

An immediate release composition comprising an effective amount of clonidine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof in a drug depot, wherein said clonidine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof is present in an amount to relieve post-operative muscle spasticity and/or shivering and said drug depot is present in an amount that facilitates immediate release of clonidine.

A method for treating a mammal suffering from muscle spasticity associated with surgery, said method comprising administering a therapeutically effective of clonidine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof at a target tissue site beneath the skin to relax muscle at or near the target tissue site, wherein said therapeutically effective amount prevents the onset of spasticity.

An implantable drug depot, wherein the drug depot comprises:

• (i) one or more immediate release layers that release a bolus dose of clonidine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof at a site beneath the skin;
• and (ii) one or more sustain release layers that release an effective amount of clonidine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof over a period of 5 to 12 days.