Abstract: The present invention provides non-aqueous compositions which comprise a pharmacologically or biologically active compound, an emulsifier, a polyol, and benzyl alcohol. The compositions are useful for administering the pharmacologically or biologically active compounds which they contain to animals, plants, or ground surfaces. In preferred embodiments, the pharmacologically or biologically active compounds may be water-insoluble or water-labile. The compositions of the present invention allow these compounds to be solubilized and conveniently transported to a site of application in a non-aqueous form, and then diluted in an aqueous solution. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the compound is ivermectin and is administered in the drinking water of poultry. The compositions of the present invention may also contain multiple pharmacologically or biologically active compounds which are administered simultaneously. The present invention also provides methods of administering the compounds.

Abstract: The present invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions for the sustained release of pharmacologically active compounds and methods of their manufacture and use. Sustained release times of 10-12 days have been achieved with the present invention. The present invention provides microcrystal compositions. The microcrystals comprise pharmacologically active compounds and are contained within a phospholipid layer which contains a unique combination of phospholipids. The present invention may be applied to a wide range of pharmaceutical compositions which may be rendered suitable for injection. The microcrystals are of varying sizes. At least 50 percent of the microcrystals are from 0.5 &mgr;m to about 3.0 &mgr;m in diameter, at least ten percent of the microcrystals are from about 3.0 &mgr;m to about 10 &mgr;m in diameter, and the composition contains microcrystals which are greater than 10 &mgr;m in diameter.