EP1424069A2 — Gastric-retentive, oral drug dosage forms for the controlled-release of sparingly soluble drugs and insoluble matter

USPTO Abstract

Controlled-release oral drug dosage forms that comprise a tablet or capsule containing a plurality of particles of a solid-state drug dispersed in a swellable/erodible polymer, such as poly(ethylene oxide) are described. Once ingested, the tablet or capsule disintegrates to disperse the particles within the stomach where they imbibe water to cause them to swell and promote retention in fed-mode-induced patients. As the gastric-retained dosage form gradually erodes, the drug is released in a controlled manner to the stomach for treatment of local disorders, and to the upper gastrointestinal tract where it becomes available for absorption in a controlled and therapeutic manner. Drug containing vesicles, such as liposomes or nanoparticles or enteric-coated drugs particles, can also be delivered to the gastrointestinal tract in a controlled manner using the gastric-retentive dosage forms of the present invention.