ABSTRACT
In recent years the use of modified-release (MR) drug formulations has increased considerably. This is partly due to advances in formulation technologies enabling one to design formulations that provide a better control of the release of the drug to the site of action. Controlled-release formulations provide several advantages over conventional immediate-release (IR) formulations of the same drug, such as a reduced dosing frequency, a decreased incidence and/or intensity of side effects, a greater selectivity of pharmacological activity, and a reduction in drug plasma fluctuation resulting in a more constant or prolonged therapeutic effect.
