Patent ID: 6685962
Filing Date: 2004-02-03
Classification: A61K,A61P

Abstract:
A foldable pharmaceutical gastroretentive drug delivery system for the controlled release of an active agent in the gastrointestinal tract, which system comprises:a) a single- or multi-layered matrix having a two- or three-dimensional geometric configuration comprising a polymer that does not retain in the stomach more than a conventional dosage form, said polymer selected from the group consisting of: (1) a degradable polymer selected from: (i) a hydrophilic polymer which is not instantly soluble in gastric fluids; (ii) an enteric polymer substantially insoluble at pH less than 5.5; (iii) a hydrophobic polymer; and (iv) any mixture of at least two polymers as defined in (i), (ii) or (iii); (2) a non-degradable polymer; and (3) a mixture of at least one polymer as defined in (1) with at least one polymer as defined in (2); b) a continuous or non-continuous membrane, that does not retain in the stomach more than a conventional dosage form, affixed or attached to said matrix, said membrane comprising at least one polymer having a substantial mechanical strength; and c) a drug, which may be in a particulate form or optionally contained within a drug-containing means; said drug or drug contained within said drug-containing means being embedded in a layer of said matrix, or being entrapped between at least two layers of said matrix, or being attached to said delivery system, wherein said matrix when affixed or attached to said membrane prevents evacuation from the stomach of said delivery system for a period of time of from about 3 to about 24 hours.