Abstract: This invention relates to a slow release nifedipine-containing pharmaceutical compositions and methods of making such compositions. The compositions of the inventions comprise a soluble carrier coated with nifedipine and polyvinylpyrrolidone and an acrylic based polymer. Nifedipine is present, in amorphous form, in excess amounts to polyvinylpyrrolidone and in equal or excess amounts to the acrylic based polymer.

Abstract: The invention pertains to a method of preparing a device for transdermal delivery of an active ingredient which is solid at room temperature and in which part or all of the active ingredient is present in a saturated or supersaturated solution. In the first step, a mixture is prepared which includes at least a polymer adhesive, a vehicle for the polymer adhesive, an active ingredient and a solvent mixture for the active ingredient which solvent mixture comprises at least two solvents having different boiling points. The mixture is then formed into a film and dried. The vehicle for the polymer adhesive and at least one of the solvents and the solvent mixture have boiling points below the drying temperature of the film, while at least one of the solvents in the solvent mixture has a boiling point above the drying temperature of the film. Thus, at least one of the solvents remains in the film after drying and the solubility of the active ingredient contained in the remaining solvent is greater than 10%.

Abstract: A slow release formulation to be administered to humans or animals, comprising primary granules which contain an active ingredient and are in a secondary matrix of a water soluble/dispersible slow release material, the granules themselves comprising particles containing the active ingredients and in a primary matrix of a water soluble/dispersible slow release material.Optionally the formulation comprises a binder phase of a water insoluble slow release material having embedded therein secondary granules comprising the secondary matrix containing the primary matrix granules.The water soluble/dispersible material may be a polysaccharide and acacia and low viscosity methylcellulose are exemplified, as well as alginate and gelatine.