| abstract |
The present invention is directed to dosage forms of drugs that release an agent that raises the pH of the gastrointestinal tract of a patient, followed by a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. The dosage form is designed so that the NSAID is not released until the intra-gastric pH has been raised to a safe level. The invention also encompasses methods of treating patients by administering this unit dosage form in combination of anti-arthritic / analgesic, gastro-protective, coordinated release, to achieve relief of pain and symptoms with a reduced risk of developing gastrointestinal damage such as ulcers. , erosions and hemorrhages. |