Abstract: In addition to the active ingredient, the capsules contain a nonionic surfactant consisting of a polyglycol ester or ether having hydrophilic and lipophilic portions, and an organic polymer which is capable of forming a free-flowing composition with the active ingredient and the surfactant. The essential point for the delay in release is the matching of the water-solubility of the active ingredient and the hydrophilic/lipophilic character (HLB value) of the surfactant as follows:______________________________________ water-insoluble HLB value above 16; sparingly soluble HLB value between 10 and 16; and water-soluble HLB value below 10.

Abstract: Pharmaceutical compositions are disclosed which contain hydrophobic practically water-insoluble drugs adsorbed onto carriers such as starch and/or microcrystalline cellulose. The rate of dissolution and absorption in the body is improved due to the very fine particle size of the drug adsorbed onto the carriers. The drug particles have a mean size of less than 10 microns the size distribution of particles being such that at least 95% of particles are smaller than 15 microns. A process for the preparation of drug-carrier adsorbates and their incorporation in pharmaceutical compositions is also disclosed. The use of such compositions to treat mammals is also disclosed.