Abstract: The pharmaceutical formulation in the form of an effervescent and/or disintegrating tablet or of instant granules contains at least one active ingredient having an irritating taste and at least one matrix which delays the release of the active ingredient and is present as an intimate mixture with the active ingredient particles or covers said particles and is applied to a carrier. The formulation releases at most 65%, preferably at most 50%, of the active ingredient in aqueous solution at room temperature within about 2 min but more than 70%, preferably at least 80%, of the active ingredient within max. 20 min, preferably max. 15 min, in 0.1N HCl at 38.degree. C. The matrix preferably contains at least one fatty ester and/or one wax, preferably having a melting point between 30.degree. and 45.degree. C., in particular between 32.degree. and 35.degree. C., and/or at least one cellulose derivative and/or at least one polymethacrylate.