| abstract |
A swellable hydrophilic matrix tablet that delivers drugs in a controlled manner over a long period of time and is easy to manufacture. More specifically, the drug is disposed in a matrix composed of HPMC or polyethylene oxide, in the presence of a salt, which may be a combination of salts. Suitable salts include sodium bicarbonate, sodium chloride, potassium bicarbonate, calcium chloride, sodium bisulfate, sodium sulfite, and magnesium sulfate. Outward diffusion of the drug is controlled by an inwardly progressing hardening reaction between the salt and the dissolution medium, possibly also involving the drug itself. |