EVALUATION OF FATTY ACIDS AS POTENTIAL MATRIX FORMERS FOR CONTROLLED RELEASE – A COMPARISON BETWEEN EXTRUSION AND PRILLING

The aim of this study is the development and characterization of multiparticulate dosage forms which release MPT, a β-blocker, at a controlled rate. In order to achieve this goal, a solid dispersion is made by embedding MPT in a fatty acid matrix (behenic acid and myristic acid) via extrusion and prilling. The release out of the matrix is diffusion-based. Since controlled release dosage forms allow a lower dosing frequency and exhibit less side effects compared to immediate release dosage forms, patient compliance is improved.