Extended-Release Tablets: A Modern Approach to Drug Delivery

Abstract

Extended-release (ER) tablets represent a significant advancement in pharmaceutical technology, offering sustained drug release to maintain therapeutic levels over an extended period. Designed for chronic conditions requiring consistent medication levels, ER formulations reduce dosing frequency, enhance patient adherence, and minimize side effects associated with peak plasma concentrations. This review explores the mechanisms of drug release in ER systems, including diffusion-controlled, osmotic, and matrix-based approaches. Additionally, it addresses the advantages of ER formulations, such as improved compliance and reduced adverse effects, while highlighting challenges like dose dumping, patient variability, and high manufacturing costs. Recent innovations are also discussed, providing insights into future directions for ER technologies in drug delivery.