Sustained Release Tablets – Definition, Formulation methods, Uses, Advantages, and Disadvantages

Sustained release tablets are a type of medication that is designed to release its active ingredients at a consistent rate over a prolonged period of time. These tablets are formulated with a special coating or using a special formulation that allows the active ingredients to be released gradually, rather than all at once. These tablets are commonly used to treat conditions that require a consistent level of medication in the body over a long period of time, such as high blood pressure or chronic pain. In this article, we will discuss the definition, formulation methods, uses, advantages, and disadvantages of sustained release tablets.

Definition

Sustained release tablets, also known as extended-release tablets or controlled release tablets, are a type of medication that is formulated to release its active ingredients at a consistent rate over an extended period of time. These tablets are designed to provide a slower and more consistent release of medication into the body, which can help to improve the effectiveness and reduce the frequency of dosing. Sustained release tablets are typically used to treat conditions that require a consistent level of medication in the body over a long period of time, such as high blood pressure or chronic pain.

Formulation methods

There are several different methods that can be used to formulate these tablets. One common method is to coat the tablet with a special layer that controls the rate of drug release. This layer may be made of a polymer or other material that is designed to dissolve slowly over time, allowing the active ingredients to be released gradually. Another method is to use a formulation that allows the active ingredients to be released gradually. This may involve using a matrix or a combination of different types of drug particles that are designed to release at different rates.

Other methods to formulate is to press a powder mixture that contains additives, polymers, and API, and the other is to granulate the mixture first. The characteristics of the drug, polymer, and other ingredients influence the selection of the most appropriate method.

Advantages

There are several advantages to using these tablets, including:

• Improved effectiveness: Sustained release tablets can provide a more consistent level of medication in the body over a long period of time, which can help to improve the effectiveness of treatment.
• Reduced dosing frequency: Because sustained release tablets release their active ingredients over a long period of time, they may be taken less frequently than other forms of medication. This can be especially convenient for individuals who have difficulty remembering to take their medication or who may have difficulty swallowing multiple pills per day.
• Reduced side effects: Sustained release tablets may be less likely to cause side effects compared to other forms of medication because they release their active ingredients gradually over time. This can help to reduce the severity of side effects and improve overall tolerance of the medication.
• Releases into the bloodstream more gradually
• Enables the maintenance of a steady level of medication in the body
• Reduces the number of doses, which reduces costs and improves patient compliance, especially for chronic conditions
• Reduces negative effects
• Improves patient experience because pills don’t have to be taken every 4-6 hours
• Improves consistency of plasma levels to help achieve therapeutic efficacy and reduce potential toxicity. For example, releasing the drug in the small intestines rather than the stomach reduces sleep disruption caused by breakthrough pain.

Disadvantages:

• Limited flexibility: Sustained release tablets may be less flexible in terms of dosing compared to other forms of medication. For example, if a person needs to increase or decrease their dose of medication, they may need to switch to a different type of tablet or formulation.
• Risk of overdose: There is a risk of overdose with sustained release tablets if they are not taken as directed. For example, if a person crushes or chews a sustained release tablet, they may receive a large dose of medication all at once, which can be dangerous.
• Risk of underdose: There is also a risk of underdose with sustained release tablets if they are not taken as directed. For example, if a person misses a dose or does not take the tablet at the correct time, they may not receive the full amount of medication that they need.
• Difficulty with dose adjustments: It can be challenging to make dose adjustments with sustained release tablets because the rate of drug release is controlled by the special coating or formulation. This can make it difficult to make fine-tuned adjustments to the dose of medication.
• Inability to use with certain medications: Sustained release tablets may not be suitable for use with certain medications because they may interact with the special coating or formulation. It is important to discuss all medications that a person is taking with a healthcare provider before starting treatment with sustained release tablets.