Modified Release Formulations: Extending Drug Commercial Lifecycle

By Jagjyot (Jot) Kaur, Market Intelligence Manager

In the ever-evolving world of pharmaceuticals, drug release systems are undergoing a transformation. Immediate release formulations are being replaced by modified dosage forms to enhance patient compliance, achieve therapeutic goals, reduce dose frequency, and improve safety. Moreover, extending the lifecycle of a drug product to maximize market potential and delay patent expiry is becoming increasingly common.

The demand for customized drug delivery solutions is on the rise, and pharmaceutical companies are focusing on developing ideal dosage forms that are not only effective but also help patients adhere to their treatment regimens. Modified release formulations can be achieved through various methods such as extended release, targeted release, delayed release, and orally disintegrating tablets.

However, the process of converting oral solid dose forms into modified-release formulations can be complex and requires specialized expertise. Leveraging the services of a CDMO with extensive knowledge and experience in modified-release dosage forms can enable valuable assistance in formulation development, processing considerations, analytical challenges, and regulatory requirements.