Abstract: A controlled release bead comprises: (i) a core unit of a substantially water-soluble or water-swellable inert material; (ii) a first layer on the core unit of a substantially water-insoluble polymer; (iii) a second layer covering the first layer and containing an active ingredient; and (iv) a third layer of polymer on the second layer effective for controlled release of the active ingredient, wherein the first layer is adapted to control water penetration into the core. A method of producing the controlled release bead is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention is drawn to a method of treating an unstable or overactive urinary bladder by treating the patient with tolterodine or a tolterodine-related compound, or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, with a controlled release formulation that maintains a substantially constant serum level of the active moiety or moieties for at least 24 hours. The present invention is further drawn to a formulation for the method.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for producing coated compressed tablets, using at least one upper punch. The upper punch can be a single punch with a hollow shaft containing a movable rod with a tip that is extended or retracted as the rod moves within the shaft. Alternatively, two solid upper punches are used, one with an extended tip and the other with a retracted tip. An upper punch with an extended tip is designed to produce cup-shaped compacts of excipient and/or polymeric tablet coating material, when inserted into the die. Core material is inserted into each cup. Additional coating material is then placed on top of the cup and core, within the die, and compressed with an upper punch with a retracted tip. The method and device of the present invention enables one to produce tablets from poorly compactable substances.

Abstract: The invention relates to a compact member comprising a plurality of porous cellulose matrices (PCMs), and providing extended release of an active compound located in the pores of said PCMs together with a release modifying agent. The friability of the compact member is less than 2.1%, and the disintegration time in-vitro of said compact member is less than 240 minutes. The compact member is manufactured by exposing a plurality of PCMs to an active compound and a release modifying agent, in optional sequence or mixture, for a time sufficient for said active compound and release modifying agent to fill the pores in said PCMs to a preselected level. The PCMs are sub-sequently compacted to a desired shape. The invention further relates to use of the compact members for administration of a drug.