Extended release

Extended release (also known as sustained release, controlled release, or timed release) is a system that delivers a drug or medication in such a way that it maintains its therapeutic effect over a prolonged period of time. This is achieved by controlling the rate at which the active ingredient is released into the body.

Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action of extended release formulations involves the slow release of the active ingredient. This can be achieved through various methods such as coating the drug with a material that dissolves slowly in the body, embedding the drug in a matrix that slowly erodes, or using a drug delivery system that releases the drug at a controlled rate.

Advantages

The main advantage of extended release formulations is that they can maintain a steady level of the drug in the body for a longer period of time. This can reduce the frequency of dosing, improve patient compliance, and potentially improve the effectiveness of the treatment. It can also reduce the risk of side effects associated with high peak concentrations of the drug.

Disadvantages

One of the main disadvantages of extended release formulations is that they can be more difficult to manufacture and may be more expensive than immediate release formulations. There is also a risk of dose dumping, where the entire dose is released at once, which can lead to adverse effects.

Examples

Examples of drugs that are available in extended release formulations include metformin, theophylline, and certain opioid medications.

See Also

• Drug delivery system
• Pharmacokinetics
• Pharmacodynamics