| abstract |
The invention is concerned with a sustained release element and its manufacture. The element comprises an agent (A) capable of release from the element when the latter is in an aqueous environment and a vehicle (B) therefor, the vehicle (B) comprising a hydrophilic component such as propylene glycol, liquid polyethylene glycols or glycerol, a silicone polymer and a modulating component, such as a polyhydroxylated organic substance or a hydrophilic polymer which swells in an aqueous medium, such as a cellusolve derivative. This element is useful particularly for affording controlled release of therapeutic or diagnostic agents. In addition to controlled release, swelling properties, adhesion and/or floatability enable increased residence times to be achieved in the stomach, colon or on the mucosa of patients undergoing treatment. |