Title of Invention

SUSTAINED RELEASE MATRIX SYSTEMS FOR HIGHLY SOLUBLE DRUGS

Abstract

Disclosed are sustained release oral solid dosage forms comprising a therapeutically effective amount of a medicament having a solubility of more than about 10 g/l; a pH modifying agent; and a sustained release matrix comprising a gelling agent, said gelling agent comprising a heteropolysaccharide gum and a homopolysaccharide gum capable of cross-linking said heteropolysaccharide gum when exposed to an environmental fluid, said dosage form providing a sustained release of said medicament after oral administration to human patients.

Full Text

FORM 2 THE PATENTS ACT 1970 [39 OF 1970] COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [See Section 10^" $uV is) "SUSTAINED RELEASE MATRIX SYSTEMS FOR HIGHLY SOLUBLE DRUGS" PENWEST PHARMACEUTICAL CO., a US company of 2981 Route 22, Patterson, NY 12563-9970, United States of America, The following specification particularly describes and ascertains the nature of the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed:- BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The advantages of controlled release products are well known in the pharmaceutical field and include the ability to maintain a desired blood level of a medicament over a comparatively longer period of time while increasing patient compliance by reducing the number of administrations necessary to achieve the same. These advantages have been attained by a wide variety of methods. For example, different hydrogels have been described for use in controlled release medicines, some of which are synthetic, but most of which are semi-synthetic or of natural origin. A few contain both synthetic and non-synthetic material. However, some of the systems require special process and production equipment, and in addition some of these systems are susceptible to variable drug release. Oral controlled release delivery systems should ideally be adaptable so that release rates and profiles can be matched to physiological and chronotherapeutic requirements. For the most part, the release rate of oral delivery systems have been classified according to the mechanism of release, such as zero order, first order, second order, pseudo-first order, and the like, although many pharmaceutical compounds release medicament via other, complicated mechanisms. First order mechanisms refer to situations where the reaction rate is dependent on the concentration of the reacting substance (and therefore is dependent on the first power of the reactant). In such mechanisms, the substance decomposes directly into one or more products. Second order mechanisms occur when the experimentally determined rate of reaction is proportional to the concentration of each of two reactants, or to the second power of the concentration of one reactant. Pseudo first order reactions are generally defined as second order reactions which behave as though they are governed by a first order mechanism, and occur, for example, when the amount of one reacting material is manipulated by being present in great excess or being maintained at a constant concentration as compared to the other substance. In such circumstances, the reaction rate is determined by the manipulated substance. Zero order mechanisms refer to situations where the reaction rate is independent of the concentration of the reacting substance (and therefore is dependent on the zero power of the reactant), the limiting factor being something other than the concentration of the reacting 2- substance (e.g., the medicament). The limiting factor in a zero order mechanism may be, for example, the solubility of the reacting substance or the light intensity in photochemical reactions. As previously mentioned, however, many chemical reactions are not simple reactions of zero-, first-, or second-order, and the like, and instead comprise a combination of two or more reactions. Moreover, other factors may influence the reaction rate, including temperature, pH, food effect variability, ions and ionic strength dependency, viscosity dependency, corrosion/erosion variability, content uniformity problems, flow and weight uniformity problems, carrying capacity and mechanical strength problems, hydrolysis, photochemical decomposition, interaction between components (such as interactions between the drug and other ingredients in the formulation, such as buffers, preservatives, and the like), the concentration of solvents of low dielectric constant (when the reaction involves oppositely charged ions), etc. While many controlled and sustained release formulations are already known, certain soluble to highly soluble drugs present formulation difficulties when included in such formulations. Sustained release formulations with soluble drugs are susceptible to "dose dumping". This occurrence is where the release of the active ingredient is delayed, but when release is initiated, the rate is extremely high. This elevated release rate is associated with blood plasma fluctuations which can possibly result in decreased therapeutic effect or increased toxicity. These are the same problems which sustained release formulations are supposed to solve. Further, it is often not possible to readily predict whether a particular sustained release formulation will provide the desired sustained release for a soluble to highly soluble drug. It has generally been found that it is necessary to carry out considerable experimentation to obtain sustained release formulations providing the desired bioavailability of such drugs when ingested. In order to compensate for the unpredictability associated with having a controlled release formulation provide the desired sustained release for a soluble to highly soluble drug, it is sometimes considered desirable to provide a formulation with bi-modal or multi-phasic kinetics. Bimodal or multi-phasic release may be characterized by an initial high rate followed by a slower rate as the dosage form passes the upper portion of the small intestine where absorption is maximum and finally another higher rate as the dosage form passes into the further end of the 3 intestine where absorption is less than before. Bimodal release is considered to be advantageous for a number of reasons, including but not limited to the fact that bimodal release allows the formulator to compensate for changing absorption rates of the medicament in the gastrointestinal tract by providing a rapid onset of action (when the formulation is located in the stomach) and compensate for relatively slow absorption by providing a relatively rapid release rate (e.g., when the formulation is located in the large intestine). Bimodal release formulations have been provided in a number of different manners to date. . For example, International Publication Number WO/87/00044 describes therapeutic formulations which are said to have bimodal release characteristics. WO 87/00044 describes a carrier base material for therapeutically active medicaments in a solid dosage formulation that are said to produce a bimodal controlled release profile characterized by a rapid initial release of medicament followed by a substantially constant rate of release for a period of time, after which the release rate is greater than the constant rate previously observed. The carrier based material comprises bimodal hydroxypropylmethylcellulose ethers with a methoxy content of 19-30%, a hydroxy propoxy content of 4-12%, a viscosity of 40-19,000 cps, an average molecular weight of 20,000-140,000, and which demonstrates a bimodal release profile in accordance with an assay method described therein. The bimodal hydroxypropylmethylcelluloses comprise 5-99% by weight of the total formulation, depending upon the active ingredient and length of drug released desire. A. C. Shah et al., "Gel-Matrix Systems Exhibiting Bimodal Controlled Release For Oral Drug Delivery", Journal of Controlled Release, 9(1989), pp. 169-175, further reported that certain "types" of hydroxypropylmethylcellulose ethers are found to display a bimodal drug release profile. However, in that study, series of hydroxypropylmethylcellulose ether polymers were found to provide bimodal and non-bimodal release profiles from polymer-drug matrix tablets, which results appeared to depend upon the supplier of the polymer (and therefore upon, e.g., the method of manufacture, ionic composition, variations in the distribution of substituent groups, or distribution of molecular weight fractions). P. Giunchedi et al., "Ketoprofen Pulsatile Absorption From "Multiple Unit" Hydrophilic Matrices" International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 77(1991), pp. 177-181 described an extended release oral formulation of Ketoprofen comprising a multiple unit formulation constituted by four hydrophilic matrices of identical composition, each containing 50 mg of drug and prepared with hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (Methocel.RTM.) and placed in a gelatin capsule. Pulsatileplasma levels (2 peaks at 2nd and 8th hours after dosing) were said to be obtained, whereas in vitro tests resulted in a fairly constant drug release. U. Conte et al.5 "A New Ibuprofen Pulsed Release Oral Dosage Form", Drug Development And Industrial Pharmacy, 15(14-16), pp 2583-2596 (1989) reported that a pulsed released pattern was obtained from a 3-layer tablet wherein two layers contained a dose of drug, and an intermediate layer acted as a control element separating the drug layers. The control element was a mixture of water-swellable polymers (hydroxypropylmethylcelluloses). An outer film of an impermeable polymer coated the tablet. A superdisintegrant (sodium starch glycolate and cross-linked polyvinyl pyrrolidone) was included in the drug layers. K. A. Kahn et al, "Pharmaceutical Aspects And In-Vivo Performance Of Brufen Retard-An Ibuprofen SR Matrix Tablet", Proced. Intern. Symp. Control. Rel. Bioact. Mater., 18(1991), Controlled Release Society, Inc., describes a formulation containing 800 mg of ibuprofen which is said to provide abimodal release pattern. The release retarding agent utilized therein was xanthan gum. The ingredients were blended to the appropriate xanthan gum content, and thereafter compressed into tablets and film coated. The amount of xanthan gum included inversely affected the rate of drug release. An increase in drug particle size or quantity of film-coat per tablet did not significantly effect the rate of drug release. Although an increase in particle size of the xanthan gum caused a more pronounced burst effect, the application of the film-coat overcame this burst effect. The rapid initial release of the medicament was hypothesized to be related to changes in the formation of the gel layer, wherein larger particles gel more slowly and are sloughed off before a coherent matrix can form. In our U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,994,276, 5,128,143, and 5,135,757, hereby incorporated by reference, we reported that a controlled release excipient which is comprised of synergistic heterodisperse polysaccharides (e.g., a heteropolysaccharide such as xanthan gum in combination with a polysaccharide gum capable of cross-linking with the heteropolysaccharide, such as locust bean gum) is capable of processing into oral solid dosage forms using either direct compression, 5 following addition of drug and lubricant powder, conventional wet granulation, or a combination of the two. The release of the medicament from the formulations therein proceeded according to zero-order or first-order mechanisms. Our own U.S. Patent No. 5,472,711 and 5,47 8,574, hereby incorporated by reference, we report a formulation capable of providing multi-phasic or bi-phasic controlled release of a therapeutically active medicament in vitro by incorporating an effective amount of a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant with the above-referenced excipient. An example of a highly soluble drug used in the present invention is diltiazem, which is a benzothiazine derivative possessing calcium antagonist activity. Diltiazem is widely used in the treatment of hypertension and angina. Accordingly, a great deal of attention has been given to the preparation of sustained release diltiazem which provides an acceptable release profile. For example U.S. Patent Nos. 4,894,240 and 5,364,620 (Geoghegan, et al.) describe a diltiazem pellet formulation suitable for once daily administration. This formulation comprises a diltiazem core in association with an organic acid, surrounded by an insoluble multi-layer membrane. The membrane allows the release of diltiazem from the pellet at a rate allowing controlled absorption over a 24 hour period following administration. Other techniques have been described in the prior art for preparing sustained release diltiazem formulations. For example, U.S. Patent No. 5,419,917 (Chen et al.) describes a composition which controls the rate of release of diltiazem from a hydrogel using a pharmaceutically effective ionizable compound. Another example of a highly soluble drug used in the present invention is oxybutynin. Oxybutynin is widely used in the treatment of urological disorders, e.g., hyperactive bladder. Our own U.S. Patent No. 5,399,359 discloses an oxybutynin sustained release formulation comprising a pharmaceutically effective amount of oxybutynin dispersed within a sustained release matrix comprising a gelling agent, an effective amount of a pharmaceutically acceptable water-soluble cationic cross-linking agent which cross-links with the gelling agent when the formulation is exposed to an environmental fluid, e.g., gastrointestinal fluid, and an inert diluent. OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a bioavailable sustained release formulation for soluble to highly soluble therapeutically active medicaments. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a formulation which can provide multi-phasic or bi-phasic controlled release for soluble to highly soluble medicaments. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a method for preparing a bioavailable sustained release formulation for soluble to highly soluble therapeutically active medicaments. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a sustained release matrix which may be used in the preparation of a sustained release oral solid dosage form of soluble to highly soluble therapeutically active medicaments. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a sustained release matrix which is suitable for providing, when combined with a medicament, a sustained release formulation which provides therapeutically effective blood levels of the medicament for e.g., 12 or 24 hours. It is a further object of the invention to provide a diltiazem sustained release matrix formulation which provides a plasma profile similar to commercially available sustained release formulations, e.g., Cardizem CD. It is a further object of the invention to provide a oxybutynin sustained release matrix formulation which provides a plasma profile similar to commercially available sustained release formulations, e.g., Ditropan XL. The above-mentioned objects and others are achieved by virtue of the present invention, which relates in part to the surprising discovery that the incorporation of a pH modifying agent into a dosage form comprising a gelling agent, facilitates the release of the drug from the dosage form and provides a high bioavailability. In certain embodiments, the sustained release oral solid dosage form comprises a therapeutically effective amount of a medicament having a solubility of more than about 10 g/1; a pH modifying agent; and a sustained release matrix comprising a gelling agent, the gelling agent comprising a heteropolysaccharide gum and ahomopolysaccharide gum capable of cross-linking the heteropolysaccharide gum when exposed to an environmental fluid. Preferably, the dosage form provides a sustained release of the medicament for at least about 12 hours, preferably at least about 24 hours. hi certain embodiments, the dosage form further" comprises a) a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant which can provide a multi-phasic release of the drug; b) an inert diluent selected from, e.g., a monosaccharide, a disaccharide, a polyhydric alcohol, or mixtures thereof; c) a hydrophobic material to slow the hydration of the gelling agent; and/or d) an effective amount of a pharmaceutically acceptable ionizable gel strength enhancing agent suitable for modifying the release rate from the gel which is formed when the controlled release formulation is exposed to an environmental fluid. In a preferred embodiment, the formulation of the present invention comprises a tablet. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the ratio of medicament to gelling agent is preferably from about 10:1 to about 1:10, more more preferably from about 5:1 to about 1:5, and most preferably from about 1.25:1 to about 2:1. The present invention is also related to a method for providing a sustained release formulation of a medicament having high solubility in water, comprising preparing a matrix comprising a gelling agent comprising a heteropolysaccharide gum and a homopolysaccharide gum capable of cross-linking said heteropolysaccharide gum when exposed to an environmental fluid; an optional ionizable gel strength enhancing agent, an optionally inert pharmaceutical diluent; and an optional hydrophobic material, and thereafter adding a soluble to highly soluble medicament, a pH modifying agent and an optional pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant. Thereafter the resulting mixture is tableted such that a product is obtained having a ratio of medicament to gelling agent from about 10:1 to about 1:10, more preferably from about 5:1 to about 1:5, and most preferably from about 1.25:1 to about 2:1, such that a gel matrix is created when the tablet is exposed to an environmental fluid and such that the tablets each contain a therapeutically effective amount of the medicament. The resulting tablet provides therapeutically effective blood levels of the medicament for at least about 12 hours, and preferably about 24 hours. The present invention is further related to a method of treating a patient by orally administering an oral solid dosage form as set forth above. In certain preferred embodiments of the invention, the matrix can be prepared from apre-granulated sustained release excipient comprising, e.g. from about 10 to about 99% by weight 8 of a gelling agent, from about 0 to about 20% by weight of an ionizable gel strength enhancing agent, from about 1 to about 89% by weight of an inert pharmaceutical diluent, and from about 1 to about 20% of a hydrophobic material. In other preferred embodiments the mixture of the matrix and inert diluent are granulated before the addition of the medicament, with a dispersion or solution of the hydrophobic material in an amount sufficient to slow the hydration of the matrix without disrupting the same. In other preferred embodiments of the invention, a first portion of the medicament is introduced during the granulation of the excipient, and a second portion of the drug is introduced extragranularly, or after the granulation step. Such an embodiment provides an initial rapid release of the medicament. In preferred embodiments, the medicament is highly soluble, i.e., has a solubility of more than about 100 g/1. In other preferred embodiment, the medicament comprises a calcium channel blocker, preferably a benzothiazine, most preferably diltiazem or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In other preferred embodiments, the medicament comprises an antispasmodic, preferably oxybutynin or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. By "sustained release" it is meant for purposes of the present invention that the therapeutically active medicament is released from the formulation at a controlled rate such that therapeutically beneficial blood levels (but below toxic levels) of the medicament are maintained over an extended period of time, e.g., at least about 12 hour or at least about 24 hours. By "bioavailable" it is meant for purposes of the present invention that the therapeutically active medicament is absorbed from the sustained release formulation and becomes available in the body at the intended site of drug action, preferably within 80% of a reference standard (based on comparison of the AUC). By "soluble", it is meant that the therapeutically active medicament has an aqueous solubility of more than about 10 grams per liter (g/1). By "highly soluble", it is meant that the therapeutically active medicament has an aqueous solubility of more than about 100 grams per liter (g/1). The term "environmental fluid" is meant for purposes of the present invention to 9 encompass, e.g., an aqueous solution, or gastrointestinal fluid. The term "pH modifying agent" is meant for purposes of the present invention to mean any substance which decreases the ionization of the medicament, whereby the release of the drug from the hydrogel matrix and into solution is facilitated. The term "Cmax" is meant for purposes of the present invention to mean then maximum plasma concentration of a medicament achieved after administration of a dosage form in accordance with the invention. The term "Tmax" is meant for purposes of the present invention to mean the elapsed time from administration of a dosage form to the time the Cmax of the medicament is achieved The term "W50" is meant for purposes of the present invention to mean the time period measured by the width of the plasma concentration curve at 50% of the height of the Cmax. For purposes of the present invention, the dosage form can have bi-modal kinetics, and accordingly, there can be multiple Cmaxs, Tmaxs and W50s for the disclosed dosage forms. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The following drawings are illustrative of embodiments of the invention and are not meant to limit the scope of the invention as encompassed by the claims. Figure 1 is a graphical representation of the dissolution (mean percent dissolved over time) for Examples 1 and 2. Figure 2 is a graphical representation of the dissolution (mean percent dissolved over time) for Examples 3 and 4. Figure 3 is a graphical representation of the dissolution (mean percent dissolved over time) for Examples 5 and 6. Figure 4 is a graphical representation of the dissolution (mean percent dissolved over time) for Examples 7 and 8. Figure 5 is a graphical representation of the dissolution (mean percent dissolved over time) for Examples 9 and 10. Figure 6 is a graphical representation of the dissolution (mean percent dissolved over time) for Examples 11 and 12. Figure 7 is a graphical representation of the % release rate over time for Examples 11 and 12. Figure 8 is a graphical representation of the dissolution (mean percent dissolved over time) for Examples 13 and 18. Figure 9 is a graphical representation of the dissolution (mean percent dissolved over time) for Examples 19 and 20. Figure 10 is a graphical representation of the dissolution (mean percent dissolved over time) for Examples 21-23. Figure 11 is a graphical representation of the mean plasma diltiazem concentration (ng/ml) over time for Example 24 and for a reference standard (Cardizem CD 240 mg). Figure 12 is a graphical representation of the mean plasma diltiazem concentration (ng/ml) over time for Examples 25 and for a reference standard (Cardizem CD 240 mg). Figure 13 is a graphical representation of the dissolution (mean percent dissolved over time) for Examples 26 and 27. Figure 14 is a graphical representation comparing the dissolution (mean percent dissolved over time) of Example 37 and for a reference standard (Ditropan XL). DETAILED DESCRIPTION The sustained release matrix of the present invention can be a heterodisperse excipient (as previously reported in our U.S. Patent Nos. 4,994,276,5,128,143, and 5,135,757) which can comprise a gelling agent of both hetero- and homo- polysaccharides which exhibit synergism, e.g., the combination of two or more polysaccharide gums produce a higher viscosity and faster hydration than that which would be expected by either of the gums alone, the resultant gel being faster-forming and more rigid. The term "heteropolysaccharide" as used in the present invention is defined as a water-soluble polysaccharide containing two or more kinds of sugar units, the heteropolysaccharide having a branched or helical configuration, and having excellent water-wicking properties and immense thickening properties. An especially preferred heteropolysaccharide is xanthan gum, which is a high molecular weight (>106) heteropolysaccharide. Other preferred heteropolysacchandes include derivatives of xanthan gum, such as deacylated xanthan gum, the carboxymethyl ether, and the propylene glycol ester. The homopolysaccharide gums used in the present invention which are capable of cross-linking with the heteropolysaccharide include the galactomannans, i.e., polysaccharides which are composed solely of mannose and galactose. Galactomannans which have higher proportions of uns.ubstituted mannose regions have been found to achieve more interaction with the heteropolysaccharide. Locust bean gum, which has a higher ratio of mannose to the galactose, is especially preferred as compared to other galactomannans such as guar and hydroxypropyl guar. The controlled release properties of the controlled release formulations of the present invention may be optimized when the ratio of heteropolysaccharide gum to homopolysaccharide material is about 1:1.5, although heteropolysaccharide gum in an amount of from about 10 to about 90 percent or more by weight of the heterodisperse polysaccharide material provides an acceptable slow release product. The combination of any homopolysaccharide gums known to produce a synergistic effect when exposed to aqueous solutions maybe used in accordance with the present invention. It is also possible that the type of synergism which is present with regard to the gum combination of the present invention could also occur between two homogeneous or two heteropolysaccharides. Other acceptable gelling agents which may be used in the present invention include those gelling agents well-known in the art. Examples include vegetable gums such as alginates, carrageenan, pectin, guar gum, modified starch, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, methylcellulose, and other cellulosic materials such as sodium carboxymethylcellulose and hydroxypropyl cellulose. This list is not meant to be exclusive. The inert diluent of the sustained release excipient preferably comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable saccharide, including a monosaccharide, a disaccharide, or a polyhydric alcohol, and/or mixtures of any of the foregoing. Examples of suitable inert pharmaceutical fillers include sucrose, dextrose, lactose, microcrystalline cellulose, fructose, xylitol, sorbitol, starches, mixtures thereof and the like. However, it is preferred that a soluble pharmaceutical filler such as lactose, dextrose, sucrose, or mixtures thereof be used. The inert diluent or filler may alternatively comprise a pre-manufactured direct compression diluent as set forth below. ) For example, it is possible to dry mix the ingredients of the sustained release excipient without utilizing a wet granulation step. This procedure may be utilized, for example, where a wet granulation is to be accomplished when the active ingredient is directly added to the ingredients of the sustained release excipient. On the other hand, this procedure may also be used where no wet granulation step whatsoever is contemplated. If the mixture is to be manufactured without a wet granulation step, and the final mixture is to be tableted, it is preferred that all or part of the inert diluent comprise a pre-manufactured direct compression diluent. Such direct compression diluents are widely used in die pharmaceutical arts, and may be obtained from a wide variety of commercial sources. Examples of su:h pre-manufactured direct compression excipients include Emcocel® (microcrystalline cellulose, N.F.), Emdex® (dextrates, N.F.), and Tab-Fine® (a number of direct-compression sugars including sucrose, fructose and dextrose), all of which are commercially available from Penwest Pharmaceuticals Co., Patterson, New York). Other direct compression diluents include Anhydrous lactose (LactoseN.F., anhydrous direct tableting) from Sheffield Chemical, Union, N.J. 07083; Elcems® G-250 (powdered cellulose), N.F.) from Degussa, D-600 Frankfurt (Main) Germany; Fast-Flo Lactose® (Lactose, N.F., spray dried) from Foremost Whey Products, Banaboo, WI 53913; Maltrin® (Agglomerated maltodextrin) from Grain Processing Corp., Muscatine, LA 52761; Neosorb 60® (Sorbitol, N.F., direct-compression from Roquet Corp., 645 5th Ave., New York, N.Y. 10022; Nu-Tab® (Compressible sugar. N.F.) from Ingredient Technology, Inc., Pennsauken, N.J. 08110; Polyplasdone XL® (Crospovidone, N.F., cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone) from GAF Corp., New York, N.Y. 10020; Primojel® (Sodium starch glycolate, N.F., carboxymethyl starch) from Generichem Corp., Little Falls, N.J. 07424; Solka Floe® (Cellulose floe) from Penwest Pharmaceuticals Co., Patterson, N.Y. 10512; Spray-dried lactose® (Lactose N.F., spray dried) from Foremost Whey Products, Baraboo, WI 53913 and DMV Corp., Vehgel, Holland; and Sta-Rx 1500® (Starch 1500) (Pregelatinized starch, N.F., compressible) from Colorcon, Inc., West Point, PA 19486. In general, the formulation may be prepared as a directly compressible diluent, for example, by wet granulating, spray drying lactose or as a premixed direct compression diluent by art known methods. For purposes of the present invention, these specially treated inert diluents will be referred to as "directly compressible" inert diluents. 13 In certain embodiments, the ingredients of the sustained release excipient can be pre-manufactured. However, in other embodiments the active drug can be added to the excipient ingredients and that mixture melt granulated to form a granulation. Finally, where a surfactant is used, the surfactant comprising the solubilized or dispersed diltiazem or oxybutynin can be added directly to the mixture of ingredients. In further embodiments of the present invention, the directly compressible inert diluent which is used in conjunction with the sustained release pharmaceutical excipient of the present invention is an augmented microcrystalline cellulose as disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 08/370,576, filed January 9,1995, and entitled "PHARMACEUTICAL EXCIPIENT HAVING IMPROVED COMPRESSIBILITY", by J. Staniforth, B. Sherwood and E. Hunter, hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The augmented microcrystalline cellulose described therein is commercially available under the tradename "Prosolv" from Penwest Pharmaceuticals Co. An effective amount of a pharmaceutically acceptable surfactant can also be added to the above-mentioned ingredients of the excipient, or added at the time the medicament is added, in order to increase the bioavailability of the medicament. An example of a suitable surfactant is docusate sodium in an amount up to about 15% by weight of the solid dosage form. An especially preferred surfactant is sodium lauryl sulfate in an amount up to about 15% by weight of the solid dosage form. In one embodiment, the surfactant is dissolved in a suitable solvent such as water, and is thereafter added to the blended mixture of the sustained release excipient and the medicament. This allows the surfactant to wet the particles of the excipient such that when the solvent evaporates the particles of the medicament;which precipitate are tiny and do not aggregate. A granulate of the medicament and the surfactant is obtained which is preferably finely and homogeneously dispersed in the excipient. In certain embodiments of thepresent invention, e.g. wherein the medicament is diltiazem or oxybutynin, the surfactant is included in an amount e.g., from about .1% to about 5%, or from about 1% to about 15% of the final product, by weight. However, the upper limit of surfactant included can be higher than 15%. One limiting factor is that the fmal product should provide a pharmaceutically acceptable formulation. For example, in the case of tablets, the upper limit of the amount of surfactant included is determined by the production of a pharmaceutically acceptable tablet, e.g., a tablet which has a friability of less than about 1% and a hardness of 6-8 kg. The surfactants which may be used in the present invention generally include pharmaceutically acceptable anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, amphoteric (amphipathic/ amphophilic) surfactants, and non-ionic surfactants. Suitable pharmaceutically acceptable anionic surfactants include, for example, monovalent alkyl carboxylates, acyl lactylates, alkyl ether carboxylates, N-acyl sarcosinates, polyvalent alkyl carbonates, N-acyl glutamates, fatty acid-polypeptide condensates, sulfuric acid esters, alkyl sulfates (including sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)), ethoxylated alkyl sulfates, ester linked sulfonates (including docusate sodium or dioctyl sodium succinate (DSS)), alpha olefin sulfonates, and phosphated ethoxylated alcohols. Suitable pharmaceutically acceptable cationic surfactants include, for example, monoalkyl quaternary ammonium salts, dialkyl quaternary ammonium compounds, amidoamines, and aminimides. Suitable pharmaceutically acceptable amphoteric (amphipathic/amphophilie) surfactants, include, for example, N-substituted alkyl amides, N-alkyl betaines, sulfobetaines, and N-alkyl 6-aminoproprionates. Other suitable surfactants for use in conjunction with the present invention include polyethyleneglycols as esters or ethers. Examples include polyethoxylated castor oil, polyethoxylated hydrogenated castor oil, polyethoxylated fatty acid from castor oil or polyethoxylated fatty acid from castor oil or polyethoxylated fatty acid from hydrogenated castor oil. Commercially available surfactants which can be used are known under trade names Cremophor, Myrj, Polyoxyl 40 stearate, Emerest 2675, Lipal 395 and PEG 3350. The pH modifying agent facilitates the release of the drug from the matrix and is present from about 1% to about 50%; from about 1% to about 25% from about 1% to about 15%; or from about 1 % to about 10% by weight of the final dosage form. In preferred embodiments, the pH modifying agent is an organic acid such as citric acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, malic acid, maleic acid, glutaric acid or lactic acid. The ionizable gel strength enhancing agent which is optionally used in conjunction with the present invention may be monovalent or multivalent metal cations. The preferred salts are 15 the inorganic salts, including various alkali metal and/or alkaline earth metal sulfates, chlorides, borates, bromides, citrates, acetates, lactates, etc. Specific examples of suitable ionizable gel strength enhancing agent include calcium sulfate, sodium chloride, potassium sulfate, sodium carbonate, lithium chloride, tripotassium phosphate, sodium borate, potassium bromide, potassium fluoride, sodium bicarbonate, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, sodium citrate, sodium acetate, calcium lactate, magnesium sulfate and sodium fluoride. Multivalent metal cations may also be utilized. However, the preferred ionizable gel strength enhancing agent are bivalent. Particularly preferred salts are calcium sulfate and sodium chloride. The ionizable gel strength enhancing agent of the present invention are added in an amount effective to obtain a desirable increased gel strength due to the cross-linking of the gelling agent (e.g., the heteropoly-saccharide and homopolysaccharide gums). In alternate embodiments, the ionizable gel strength enhancing agent is included in the sustained release excipient of the present invention in an amount from about 1 to about 20% by weight of the sustained release excipient, and in an amount 0.5% to about 16% by weight of the final dosage form. In certain embodiments of the present invention, the sustained release matrix of the present invention comprises a sustained release excipient which comprises from about 10 to about 99 percent by weight of a gelling agent comprising a heteropolysaccharide gum and a homopolysaccharide gum, from about 0 to about 20 percent by weight of an ionizable gel strength enhancing agent, and from about 1 to about 89 percent by weight of an inert pharmaceutical diluent. In other embodiments, the sustained release excipient comprises from about 10 to about 75 percent gelling agent, from about 2 to about 15 percent ionizable gel strength enhancing agent, and from about 30 to about 75 percent inert diluent. In yet other embodiments, the sustained release excipient comprises from about 30 to about 75 percent gelling agent, from about 5 to about 10 percent ionizable gel strength enhancing agent, and from about 15 to about 65 percent inert diluent. The sustained release excipient of the present invention (with or without the optional ionizable gel strength enhancing agent) may be further modified by incorporation of a hydrophobic material which slows the hydration of the gums without disrupting the hydrophilic matrix. This is accomplished in alternate embodiments of the present invention by granulating the sustained release excipient with the solution or dispersion of a hydrophobic material prior to the incorporation of the medicament. The hydrophobic polymer may be selected from an alkylcellulose such as ethylcellulose, other hydrophobic cellulosic materials, polymers or copolymers derived from acrylic or methacrylic acid esters, copolymers of acrylic and methacrylic acid esters, zein, waxes, shellac, hydrogenated vegetable oils, and any other pharmaceutically acceptable hydrophobic material known to those skilled in the art. The amount of hydrophobic material incorporated into the sustained release excipient is that which is effective to slow the hydration of the gums without disrupting the hydrophilic matrix formed upon exposure to an environmental fluid. In certain preferred embodiments of the present invention, the hydrophobic material is included in the sustained release excipient in an amount from about 1 to about 20 percent by weight. The solvent for the hydrophobic material may be an aqueous or organic solvent, or mixtures thereof. In embodiments where the sustained release excipient of the present invention has been pre-manufactured, it is then possible to blend the same with the medicament, e.g., in a high shear mixer. In certain especially preferred embodiments, the medicament is a therapeutically effective benzothiazine which are useful for the treatment of circulatory disorders and high blood pressure. An especially preferred dihydropyridine is diltiazem. Useful formulations of diltiazem generally contain daily doses from about 30 to about 500 mg, preferably from about 120 mg to about 480 mg. In certain preferred embodiments of the present invention, the dosage form includes a dosage of diltiazem in an amount of 120 mg, 180 mg, 240 mg, or 300 mg for 24 hour formulations; and a dosage of diltiazem in an amount of 60 mg, 90 mg and 120 mg for 12 hour formulations. In certain other especially preferred embodiments, the medicament is oxybutynin which is useful for the treatment of urological disorders. Useful formulations of oxybutynin generally contain daily doses from about 2.5 mg to about 50 mg, e.g., from about 2.5 mg to about 25 mg for 12 hour formulations and from about 5 mg to about 50 mg for 24 hour formulations. In certain preferred embodiments of the present invention, the dosage form includes a dosage of oxybutynin in an amount of 5 mg, 10 mg, or 15 mg for 24 hour, formulations. An effective amount of any generally accepted pharmaceutical lubricant, including calcium or magnesium soaps is preferably added to the mixture of ingredients (including medicament) prior to compression of the mixture into oral solid dosage forms, such as tablets. 17 An example of ^.^table lubricant is magnesium stearate in an amount of about 0.5 to about 3% by weigh*1*1*ne sou^ d°sage form. An especially preferred lubricant is sodium stearyl fumarate, jsTf. commercially available under the trade name Pruv® from Penwest Pharmaceuticals Co. The sustained release excipients of the present invention have uniform packing characteristics over a range of different particle size distributions and are capable of processing into the final dosage form (e.g., tablets) using either direct compression, following addition of drug and lubricant powder, or conventional wet granulation. The properties and characteristics of a specific excipient system prepared according to the present invention is dependent in part on the individual characteristics of the homo and heteropolysaccharide constituents, in terms of polymer solubility, glass transition temperatures etc., as well as on the synergism both between different homo- and heteropolysaccharides and between the homo and heteropolysaccharides and the inert saccharide constituent(s) in modifying dissolution fluid-excipient interactions. The combination of the gelling agent (i.e., a mixture of xanthan gum and locust bean gum) with the inert diluent, with or without the ionizable gel strength enhancing agent and hydrophobic polymer, provides a ready-to-use sustained release excipient product in which a formulator need only blend the desired active medicament, the pH modifying agent, the surfactant and an optional lubricant with the excipient before compressing the mixture to form slow release tablets. The excipient may comprise a physical admix of the gums along with a soluble excipient such as compressible sucrose, lactose or dextrose, although it is preferred to granulate or agglomerate the gums with plain (i.e., crystalline) sucrose, lactose, dextrose, etc., to form an excipient. The granulate form has certain advantages including the fact that it can be optimized for flow and compressibility; it can be tableted, formulated in a capsule, extruded and spheronized with an active medicament to form pellets, etc. The pharmaceutical excipients prepared in accordance with the present invention may be prepared according to any agglomeration technique to yield an acceptable excipient product. In wet granulation techniques, the desired amounts of the heteropolysaccharide gum, the homopolysaccharide gum, and the inert diluent are mixed together and thereafter a moistening agent such as water, propylene glycol, glycerol, alcohol or the like is added to prepare a moist¬ened mass. Next, the moistened mass is dried. The dried mass is then milled with conventional equipment into granules. Therefore, the excipient product is ready to use. The pre-manufactured sustained release excipient is preferably free-flowing and directly compressible. Accordingly, the excipient may be mixed in the desired proportion with a therapeutically active medicament and optional lubricant (dry granulation). Alternatively, all or part of the excipient may be subjected to a wet granulation with the active ingredient and thereafter tableted. When the final product to be manufactured is tablets, the complete mixture, in an amount sufficient to make a uniform batch of tablets, is then subjected to tableting in a conventional production scale tableting machine at normal compression pressure, i.e. about 2000-1600 lbs/sq in. However, the mixture should not be compressed to such a degree that there is subsequent difficulty in its hydration when exposed to gastric fluid. One of the limitations of direct compression as a method of tablet manufacture is the size of the tablet. If the amount of active is high a pharmaceutical formulator may choose to wet granulate the active with other excipients to attain a decent size tablet with the right compact strength. Usually the amount of filler/binder or excipients needed in wet granulation is less than that in direct compression since the process of wet granulation contributes to some extent toward the desired physical properties of a tablet. When the medicament is diltiazem, the average tablet size for round tablets is preferably about 300 mg to 750 mg and for capsule-shaped tablets about 700 mg to 1000 mg. The average particle size of the granulated excipient of the present invention preferably ranges from about 50 microns to about 400 microns and preferably from about 185 microns to about 265 microns. The particle size of the granulation is not narrowly critical, the important ■ parameter being that the average particle size of the granules, must permit the formation of a directly compressible excipient which forms pharmaceutically acceptable tablets. The desired tap and bulk densities of the granulation of the present invention are normally between from about 0.3 to about 0.8 g/ml, with an average density of from about 0.5 to about 0.7 g/ml. For best results, the tablets formed from the granulations of the present invention are from about 5 to about 20 kg hardness. The average flow of the granulations prepared in accordance with the present invention are preferably from about 25 to about 40 g/sec. Tablets compacted using an instrumented rotary tablet machine have been found to possess strength profiles which are largely independent of the inert saccharide component. Scanning electron photomicrographs of largely tablet surfaces have provided qualitative evidence of extensive plastic deformation on compaction, both at the tablet surface and across the fracture surface, and also show evidence of surface pores through which initial solvent ingress and solution egress may occur. In certain embodiments of the invention, the tablet is coated with a sufficient amount of a hydrophobic polymer to render the formulation capable of further modifying the release of the medicament. The hydrophobic polymer which is included in the tablet coating may be the same or different material as compared to the hydrophobic polymeric material which is optionally granulated with the sustained release excipient. In other embodiments of the present invention, the tablet coating may comprise an enteric coating material in addition to or instead of the hydrophobic polymer coating. Examples of suitable enteric polymers include cellulose acetate phthalate, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose phthalate, polyvinylacetate phthalate, methacrylic acid copolymer, shellac, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose succinate, cellulose acetate trimellitate, and mixtures of any of the foregoing. An example of a suitable commercially available enteric material is available under the trade name Eudragit™ L30D55. In further embodiments, the dosage form may be coated with a hydrophilic coating in addition to or instead of the above-mentioned coatings. An example of a suitable material which may be used for such a hydrophilic coating is hydroxypropylmethyl-cellulose (e.g., Opadry®" commercially available from Colorcon, West Point, Pennsylvania). The coatings may be applied in any pharmaceutically acceptable manner known to those skilled in the art. For example, in one embodiment, the coating is applied via a fluidized bed or in a coating pan. For example, the coated tablets may be dried, e.g., at about 60-70° C for about 3-4 hours in a coating pan. The solvent for the hydrophobic polymer or enteric coating may be organic, aqueous, or a mixture of an organic and an aqueous solvent. The organic solvents may be, e.g., isopropyl alcohol, ethanol, and the like, with or without water. In additional embodiments of the present invention, a support platform is applied to the tablets manufactured in accordance with the present invention. Suitable support platforms are well known to those skilled in the art. An example of suitable support platform is set forth, e.g., in U.S. Patent No. 4,839,177, hereby incorporated by reference. In that patent, the support platform partially coats the tablet, and consists of a polymeric material insoluble in aqueous liquids. The- support platform may, for example, be designed to maintain its impermeability characteristics during the transfer of the therapeutically active medicament. The support platform may be applied to the tablets, e.g., via compression coating onto part of the tablet surface, by spray coating the polymeric materials comprising the support platform onto all or part of the tablet surface, or by immersing the tablets in a solution of the polymeric materials. The support platform may have a thickness of, e.g., about 2 mm if applied by compression, and about 10 u if applied via spray-coating or immersion-coating. Generally, in embodiments of the invention wherein a hydrophobic polymer or enteric coating is applied to the tablets, the tablets are coated to a weight gain from about 1 to about 20%, and in certain embodiments preferably from about 5% to about 10%. Materials useful in the hydrophobic coatings and support platforms of the present invention include derivatives of acrylic acid (such as esters of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, and copolymers thereof) celluloses and derivatives thereof (such as ethylcellulose), polyvinylalcohols, and the like. In certain embodiments of the present invention, the tablet core includes an additional dose of the medicament included in cither the hydrophobic or enteric coating, or in an additional overcoating coated on the outer surface of the tablet core (without the hydrophobic or enteric coating) or as a second coating layer coated on the surface of the base coating comprising the hydrophobic or enteric coating material. This may be desired when, for example, a loading dose of a therapeutically active agent is needed to provide therapeutically effective blood levels of the active agent when the formulation is first exposed to gastric fluid. The loading dose of medicament included in the coating layer may be, e.g., from about 10% to about 40% of the total amount of medicament included in the formulation. In preferred embodiments of the invention, the final formulation provides bi-modal or multi-phasic plasma levels when the medicament is diltiazem. In preferred embodiments, when the medicament is diltiazem, the formulations of the invention provide a first time to peak plasma concentration (Tmax #1) of the diltiazem in about 4 to about 10 hours after oral administration of the dosage form to the patient. In certain preferred embodiments, the first time to peak plasma concentration occurs from about 6 to about 8 hours after oral administration. In preferred embodiments, the maximum plasma concentration of diltiazem at the first Tmax (Cmax #1) is from about 50 to about 1 OOng/ml, per administration of a 240 mg dosage of diltiazem in an oral sustained release dosage form in accordance with the invention. In further preferred embodiments of the invention, the sustained release diltiazem formulations provide a second peak plasma concentration (Cmax #2) which occurs in about 10 to about 16 hours after oral administration of the dosage form to the patient (Tmax #2). In certain preferred embodiments, the second peak plasma concentration (Cmax #2) occurs in about 12 to about 14 hours after oral administration of the dosage form to the patient (Tmax #2). In preferred embodiments, the maximum plasma concentration of diltiazem at Cmax #2 is from about 60 to about 90 ng/ml, per 240mg diltiazem administered over the 24 hour period. In certain preferred embodiments, the sustained release diltiazem formulations provide a the W50 of Cmax #1 (defined for purposes of the present invention as the width of the plasma concentration curve at 50% of the height of the first Cmax (Cmax #1), based on a trough taken at the Cmin between Cmax #1 and Cmax #2) is from about 0.5 to about 4 hours, preferably from about 1 to about 3 hours. In certain preferred embodiments, the sustained release diltiazem formulations provide a W50 of Cmax #2 (defined for purposes of the present invention as the width of the plasma concentration curve at 50% of the height of the second Cmax (Cmax #2), based on a the trough taken at the Cmin between Cmax #1 and Cmax #2) is from about 0.5 to about 8 hours, preferably from about 2 to about 6 hours. In certain preferred embodiments, the sustained release diltiazem formulations of the invention provide aratio of Cmax #1 to Cmax #2 from about 0.5:1 to about 1.5:1; preferably from about 0.7:1 to about 1.2:1. Based on the dosage of diltiazem in the sustained release oral formulations of the invention, one can easily determine the Cmax # 1, Cmax #2, Tmax # 1 and Tmax #2 for different dosages of diltiazem over a 12 or 24 hour period. In certain preferred embodiments of the invention when the medicament is oxybutynin, the formulation provides a time to peak plasma concentration (Tmax) of oxybutynin in about 5 to about 15 hours, preferably in about 8 to about 12 hours. Examples of soluble to Highly soluble medicaments which are suitable for incorporation in the present invention include antihistamines (e.g., azatadine maleate, brompheniramine maleate, carbinoxamine maleate, chlorpheniramine maleate, dexchlorpheniramine maleate, diphenhydramine hydrochloride, doxylamine succinate, methdilazine hydrochloride, promethazine, trimeprazine tartrate, tripelennamine citrate, tripelennamine hydrochloride and triprolidine hydrochloride); antibiotics (e.g., penicillin v potassium, cloxacillin sodium, dicloxacillin sodium, nafcillin sodium, oxacillin sodium, carbenicillin indanyl sodium, oxytetracycline hydrochloride, tetracycline hydrochloride, clindamycin phosphate, clindamycin hydrochloride, clindamycin palmitate hcl, lincomycin hcl, novobiocin sodium, nitrofurantoin sodium, metronidazole hydrochloride); antituberculosis agents (e.g., isoniazid ); cholinergic agents (e.g., ambenonium chloride, bethanecol chloride, neostigmine bromide, pyridostigmine bromide); antimuscarinics (e.g., anisotropine methylbromide, clidinium bromide, dicyclomine hydrochloride, glycopyrrolate, hexocyclium methylsulfate, homatropine methylbromide, hyoscyamine sulphate, methantheline bromide, hyoscine hydrobromide, oxyphenonium bromide, propantheline bromide, tridihexethyl chloride); sympathomimetics (e.g., bitolterol mesylate, ephedrine, ephedrine hydrochloride, ephedrine sulphate, orciprenaline sulphate, phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride, pseudoephedrine hydrochloride, ritodrine hydrochloride, salbutamol sulphate, terbutaline sulphate); sympatholytic agents (e.g., phenoxybenzamine hydrochloride); miscellaneous autonomic drugs (e.g., nicotine); iron preparations (e.g., ferrous gluconate, ferrous sulphate); haemostatics (e.g., aminocaproic acid ); cardiac drugs (e.g., acebutolol hydrochloride, disopyramide phosphate, flecainide acetate, procainamide hydrochloride, propranolol hydrochloride, quinidine gluconate, timolol maleate, tocainide hydrochloride, verapamil hydrochloride); antihypertensive agents (e.g., captopril, clonidine hydrochloride, hydralazine hydrochloride, mecamylamine hydrochloride, metoprolol tartrate); vasodilators (e.g., papaverine hydrochloride); non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (e.g., choline salicylate, magnesium salicylate, meclofenamate sodium, naproxen sodium, tolmetin sodium); anticonvulsants (e.g., phenobarbital sodium, phenytoin sodium, troxidone, ethosuximide, valproate sodium); tranquilizers (e.g., acetophenazine maleate, chlorpromazine hydrochloride, fluphenazine hydrochloride, prochlorperazine edisylate, promethazine hydrochloride, thioridazine hydrochloride, trifluoroperazine hydrochloride, lithium citrate, molindone hydrochloride, thiothixine hydrochloride); stimulants (e.g., benzamphetamine hydrochloride, dextroamphetamine sulphate, dextroamphetamine phosphate, diethylpropion hydrochloride, fenfluramine hydrochloride, methamphetamine hydrochloride, methylphenidate hydrochloride, phendimetrazine tartrate, phenmetrazine hydrochloride, caffeine citrate); barbiturates (e.g., amylobarbital sodium, butabarbital sodium, secobarbital sodium); sedatives (e.g., hydroxyzine hydrochloride, methprylon); expectorants (e.g., potassium iodide ); antiemetics (e.g., benzaquinamide hydrochloride, metoclopropamide hydrochloride, trimethobenzamide hydrochloride); gastro-intestinal drugs (e.g., ranitidine hydrochloride); heavy metal antagonists (e.g., penicillamine, penicillamine hydrochloride); antithyroid agents (e.g., methimazole); genitourinary smooth muscle relaxants (e.g., flavoxate hydrochloride); vitamins (e.g., thiamine hydrochloride, ascorbic acid ); unclassified agents (e.g., amantadine hydrochloride, colchicine, etidronate disodium, leucovorin calcium, methylene blue, potassium chloride, pralidoxime chloride. This list is not meant to be exclusive. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The following examples illustrate various aspects of the present invention. They are not to be construed to limit the claims in any manner whatsoever. EXAMPLES 1-2 EFFECT OF DRUG:GUM RATIO IN FORMULATION In Example 1 -2, sustained release excipients in accordance with the present invention are first prepared, the medicament (in this case diltiazem) and the pH modifying agent (in this case being fumaric acid) being added subsequently, and the final mixture then being tableted. The sustained release excipient is prepared by dry blending the requisite amounts of xanthan gum, locust bean gum, and dextrose in a high speed mixer/granulator for 3 minutes. While running choppers/impellers, water is added to the dry blended mixture, and granulated for another 3 minutes. The granulation is then dried in a fluid bed dryer to a LOD (loss on drying) of less than about 10% by weight (e.g., 4-7% LOD). The granulation is then milled using 20 mesh screens and dispensed into a granulator. The ingredients of the granulations of Examples 1-2 are set forth in Table 1 below: TABLE 1 PREPARATION OF SUSTAINED-RELEASE EXCIPIENT Component Amount (%) - Ex. 1 Amount (%) - Ex. 2 1. XanthanGum 20 12 2. Locust Bean Gum 30 18 3 Dextrose 50 70 4 Water 30 25 25 Next, the desired amount of diltiazem , fumaric acid and a suitable amount of water are mixed for 5 minutes with an impeller type mixer to form a slurry. The slurry is then added to the sustained release excipient over a 1 minute interval in the granulator, with the impeller running on low speed. Next, the mixture is granulated for 2 minutes with the chopper and impeller on high speed (additional water and granulation time may be used to form proper granules). The resultant granules are then dried in a fluid bed dryer until LOD is less than 5% and milled with hammer forward at 2000-3000 rpm. The milled granulation is then placed in a V-Blender with sodium lauryl sulfate and blended for 10 minutes. A suitable tableting lubricant (Pruv®, sodium stearyl fumarate, NF, commercially available from Penwest Pharmaceuticals Co. is added, and the mixture is blended for another 3 minutes. The resultant granulation is then compressed into tablets using a capsule shaped punch. This final mixture is tableted to approximately 768 mg. The ingredients of the tablets of Examples 1-2 are set forth in Table 2 below: TABLE 2 * Removed during processing The final tablets have a tablet weight of 768.0 nig and a hardness of 15 Kp. Dissolution tests were then carried out on the tablets of Examples 1-2 in 900 ML water in an automated USP dissolution apparatus (Paddle type II, 100 rpm), and the amount of drug released was analyzed via UV analysis. The in-vitro dissolution results are set forth in Figure 1 and in Table 3 below. From the results provided in Figure 1 and Table 3, it is evident that the rate of release of diltiazem is slower as the amount of gum in the formulations is increased. 26 EXAMPLES 3-4 EFFECT OF GUM:DEXTROSE RATIO In Examples 3-4, a sustained release excipient is prepared in accordance with the procedure set forth in Examples 1 and 2. The ingredients of the sustained release excipient of Examples 3 and 4 are set forth in table 4 below: TABLE 4 Component Amount (%) - Ex. 1 Amount (%) - Ex. 2 1 XanthanGum 12 20 2 Locust Bean Gum 18 30 3 Dextrose 70 50 4 Water* 25 35 * removed during processing Thereafter, diltiazem tablets are prepared as follows: The desired amount of diltiazem , fumaric acid and the sustained release excipient are placed in a granulator and mixed for 3 minutes at low speed. Water is added over a 2 minute interval while the impeller is running at low speed (additional water and granulation time may be used to form proper granules). The resultant granules are then dried in a fluid bed dryer until LOD is less than 5% and milled with hammer forward at 2000-3000 rpm using screen #0050. The milled granulation is then placed in a V-Blender with sodium lauryl sulfate and blended for 10 minutes. A suitable tableting lubricant (Pruv®, sodium stearyl fumarate, NF, commercially available from Penwest Pharmaceuticals Co.) is added, and the mixture is blended for another 5 minutes. The resultant granulation is then compressed into tablets using a capsule shaped punch. This final mixture is tableted to approximately 750 mg. The ingredients of the tablets of Examples 3-4 are set forth in Table 5 below: 27 TABLE 5 *Removed during processing The final tablets have a tablet weight of 750.0 mg and a hardness of 15 Kp Dissolution tests were then carried out on the tablets of Examples 3-4 in 250 ML buffer (ph 6) in an automated USP dissolution apparatus (Paddle type EI, 15CPM), and the amount of drug released was analyzed via UV analysis. The in-vitro dissolution results are set forth in Figure 2 and in Table 6 below; From the results provided in Figure 2 and Table 6, it is evident that as the amount of gum relative to the amount of dextrose is increased, a corresponding decrease in drug release is observed. 5^ EXAMPLES 5-6 EFFECT OF STJRPACTANT TYPE In Examples 5-6, a sustained release excipient is prepared accordance with the procedure set forth in Examples 1 and 2. The ingredients of the sustained release excipient of Examples 5 and 6 are set forth in table 7 below: TABLE 7 Component Amount (%) - Ex. 5-6 1 XanthanGum 12 2 Locust Bean Gum 18 3 Dextrose 70 4 Water* 25 * removed during processing Thereafter, diltiazem tablets are prepared as follow: The desired amount of diltiazem , fumaric acid and a suitable amount of water are mixed for 5 minutes with an impeller type mixer to form a slurry. The slurry is then added to the sustained release excipient over a 1 minute interval in the granulator, with the impeller running on low speed. Next, the mixture is granulated for 2 minutes with the chopper and impeller on high speed (additional water and granulation time may be used to form proper granules). The resultant granules are then dried in a fluid bed dryer until LOD is less than 5% and milled with hammer forward at 2000-3000 rpm. The milled granulation of Example 5 is then placed in a V-Blender with sodium lauryl sulfate, and the milled granulation of Example 6 is placed in a V-Blender with docusate sodium and blended for 10 minutes. A suitable tableting lubricant (Pruv®, sodium stearyl fumarate, NF, commercially available from Penwest Pharmaceuticals Co. is then added to each example, and the mixtures are blended for another 3 minutes. The resultant granulations are then compressed into tablets using a capsule shaped punch. This final mixture is tableted to approximately 848 mg. The ingredients of the tablets of Examples 5-6 are set forth in Table 8 below: 29 TABLE 8 The final tablets have a tablet weight of 848.0 mg. and a hardness of 15 Kp. Dissolution tests were then carried out on the tablets of Examples 1-2. The dissolution tests were conducted in 900 ML water in an automated USP dissolution apparatus (Paddle type II, 100 rpm), and the amount of drug released was analyzed via UV analysis. The in-vitro dissolution results are set forth in Figure 3 and in Table 9 below. Time fhr) Ex. 5(% dissolved) Ex. 6 (% dissolved^) 0 0.0 0.0 1 14.0 12.2 2 19.3 18.9 4 31.3 29.8 8 49.5 47.6 12 62.7 61.4 16 77.0 73.0 20 88.5 83.5 24 98.6 89.2 TABLE 9 30 From the results provided in Figure 3 and Table 9, it is evident that the rate of release of diltiazem is similar for equivalent ratios of sodium lauryl sulfate and docusate sodium. However, the formulation did process better with sodium lauryl sulfate. EXAMPLES 7-8 EFFECT OF SURFACTANT LEVEL In Examples 7-8, a sustained release excipient is prepared accordance with the procedure set forth in Examples 1 and 2. The ingredients of the sustained release excipient of Examples 7 and 8 are set forth in table 10 below: TABLE 10 Component Amount (% -) Ex. 7-8 1. XanthanGum 12 2. Locust Bean Gum 18 3. . Dextrose 70 4. Water* 25 * Removed during processing Thereafter, diltiazem tablets are prepared as follows: The desired amount of diltiazem , fumaric acid and a suitable amount of water are mixed for 5 minutes with an impeller type mixer to form a slurry. The slurry is then added to sustained release excipient over a 1 minute interval in the granulator, with the impeller running on low speed. Next, the mixture is granulated for 2 minutes with the chopper and impeller on high speed (additional water and granulation time may be used to form proper granules). The resultant granules are then dried in a fluid bed dryer until LOD is less than 5% and milled with hammer forward at 2000-3000 rpm. The milled granulation is then placed in a V-Blender with sodium lauryl sulfate and blended for 10 minutes. A suitable tableting lubricant (Pruv®, sodium stearyl fumarate, NF, commercially available from Penwest Pharmaceuticals Co. is then added, and the mixture is blended for another 3 minutes. The resultant granulation is then compressed into tablets using a capsule shaped punch. This final mixture is tableted to approximately 768 mg. The ingredients of the tablets of Examples 7-8 are set forth in Table 31 TABLE 11 11 below: The final tablets of Example 7 have a tablet weight of 768.0 mg. and a hardness of 15 Kp. The final tablets of Example 8 have a tablet weight of 728.0 mg. and a hardness of 15 Kp. 32 Dissolution tests were then carried out ori the tablets of Examples 7-8. The dissolution tests were conducted in 900 ML water in an automated USP dissolution apparatus (Paddle type II, 100 rpm), and the amount of drug released was analyzed via UV analysis. The results are set forth in Figure 4 and Table 12 below: From the results provided in Figure 4 and Table 12, it is evident that the dissolution rate of diltiazem is inversely related to the surfactant level. EXAMPLES 9-10 EFFECT OF FUMARIC ACID LEVEL In Examples 9-10, a sustained release excipient is prepared accordance with the procedure set forth in Examples 1 and 2. The ingredients of the sustained release excipient of Examples 9 and 10 are set forth in table 13 below: TABLE 13 Component Amount (%) - Ex. 9-10 1. Xanthan Gum 12 2. Locust Bean Gum 18 3. Dextrose 70 4. Water* 25 * Removed during processing Thereafter, diltiazem tablets are prepared as follows: The desired amount of diltiazem , fumaric acid and a suitable amount of water are mixed for 5 minutes with an impeller type mixer to form a slurry. The slurry is then added to sustained release excipient over a 1 minute interval in the granulator, with the impeller running on low speed. Next, the mixture is granulated for 2 minutes with the chopper and impeller on high speed (additional water and granulation time may be used to form proper granules). The resultant granules are then dried in a fluid bed dryer until LOD is less than 5% and milled with hammer forward at 2000-3000 rpm. The milled granulation is then placed in a V-Blender with sodium lauryl sulfate and blended for 10 minutes. A suitable tableting lubricant (Pruv®, 33 sodium stearyl fumarate, NF, commercially available from Penwest Pharmaceuticals Co. is then added, and the mixture is blended for another 3 minutes. The resultant granulation is then compressed into tablets using a capsule shaped punch. This final mixture is tableted to approximately 848 mg. The ingredients of the tablets of Examples 9-10 are set forth in Table 14 below: TABLE 14 The final tablets in Example 9 have a weight of 848.0 mg. and a hardness of 15 Kp. The final tablets in Example 10 have a weight of 768 mg. and a hardness of 15 Kp. Dissolution tests were then carried out on the tablets of Examples 9-10. The dissolution tests were conducted in 900 ML water in an automated USP dissolution apparatus (Paddle type II, 100 rpm), and the amount of drug released was analyzed via UV analysis. The results are set forth in Figure 5 and Table 15 below: 34 From the results provided in Figure 5 and Table 15, it is evident that by increasing the amount of fumaric acid in the formulation, the release rate increases. EXAMPLES 11-12 EXTRA-GRANULAR ADDITION OF DRUG In Examples 11-12, a sustained release excipient is prepared accordance with the procedure set forth in Examples 1 and 2. The ingredients of the sustained release excipient of Examples 11 and 12 are set forth in table 16 below: * Removed during processing Thereafter, diltiazem tablets are prepared as follows: In Example 11, the desired amount of diltiazem , fumaric acid and a suitable amount of water are mixed for 5 minutes with an impeller type mixer to form a slurry. The slurry is then added to sustained release excipient over a 1 minute interval in the granulator, with the impeller running on low speed. Next, the mixture is granulated for 2 minutes with the chopper 35 and impeller on high speed (additional water and granulation time may be used to form proper granules). The resultant granules are then dried in a fluid bed dryer until LOD is less than 5% and milled with hammer forward at 2000-3000 rpm. The milled granulation is then placed in a V-Blender with sodium lauryl sulfate and blended for 10 minutes. A suitable tableting lubricant (Pruv®, sodium stearyl fumarate, NF, commercially available from Penwest Pharmaceuticals Co. is then added, and the mixture is blended for another 3 minutes. The resultant granulation is then compressed into tablets using a capsule shaped punch. This final mixture is tableted to approximately 848 mg. In Example 12, a portion of diltiazem, fumaric acid and a suitable amount of water are mixed for 5 minutes with an impeller type mixer to form a slurry. The slurry is then added to sustained release excipient over a 1 minute interval in the granulator, with the impeller running on low speed. Next, the mixture is granulated for 2 minutes with the chopper and impeller on high speed (additional water and granulation time may be used to form proper granules). The resultant granules are then dried in a fluid bed dryer until LOD is less than 5% and milled with hammer forward at 2000-3000 rpm. The milled granulation is then placed in a V-Blender with sodium lauryl sulfate and the remaining amount of diltiazem and blended for 10 minutes. A suitable tableting lubricant (Pruv®, sodium stearyl fumarate, NF, commercially available from Penwest Pharmaceuticals Co. is then added, and the mixture is blended for another 3 minutes. The resultant granulation is then compressed into tablets using a capsule shaped punch. This final mixture is tableted to approximately 848 mg. The ingredients of the tablets of Examples 11 -12 are set forth in Table 17 below: 36 The final tablets of Example 11 have a weight of 848.0 mg. and a hardness of 15 Kp. The final tablets of Example 12 have a weight of 848.0 mg. and a hardness of 15 Kp. Dissolution tests were then carried out on the tablets of Examples 11-12. The dissolution tests were conducted in 900 ML water in an automated USP dissolution apparatus (Paddle type II, 100 rpm), and the amount of drug released was analyzed via UV analysis. The results are set forth in Figure 6 and Table 18 below: TABLE 18 Time fhr) Ex. 11 (% Dissolved} Ex. 12 (% Dissolved) 0 0.0 0.0 1 14.2 32.6 2 19.3 35.5 4 31.3 48.7 8 49.5 66.4 12 62.7 78.5 16 77.0 85.2 37 20 88.5 89.2 24 98.6 94.6 From the results provided in Figure 6 and Table 18, it is shown that the addition of diltiazem extragranularly produces an initial burst of approximately 35%. It is evident that the addition of a percentage of the drug extra-granularly provides an initial rapid release, as also demonstrated by Figure 7 which depicts the % release rate of diltiazem from the dosage forms of Examples 11 and 12 overtime. EXAMPLES 13-18 EFFECT OF COATING TABLETS WITH EUDRAGIT L30D55 w/ NaOH (Methacrvlic Acid Copolymer Aqueous Dispersion*) In Examples 13-18, a sustained release excipient is prepared accordance with the procedure set forth in Examples 1 and 2. The ingredients of the sustained release excipient of Examples 13-18 are set forth in table 19 below: TABLE 19 Component Amount (%) - Ex. 13-18 1. Xanthan Gum 12 2. Locust Bean Gum 18 3. Dextrose 70 4. Water* 25 * Removed during processing Thereafter, diltiazem tablets are prepared as follows: The desired amount of diftiazem , fumaric acid and the sustained release excipient are mixed in a granulator for 3 minutes at low speed. A suitable amount of water is then added over a 2 minute interval with the impeller running at low speed. The resultant slurry is then granulated for 7.5 minutes with the chopper and impeller on high speed (additional water and granulation time may be used to form proper granules). The resultant granules are then dried in a fluid bed dryer until LOD is less than 5% and milled with hammer forward at 2000-3000 rpm using screen #0050. The milled granulation is then placed in a V-Blender with sodium St lauryl sulfate and blended for 10 minutes. A suitable tableting lubricant (Pruv®, sodium stearyl fumarate, NF, commercially available from Penwest Pharmaceuticals Co. is then added, and the mixture is blended for another 5 minutes. The resultant granulation is then compressed into tablets using a capsule shaped punch. This final mixture is tableted to approximately 750 mg. The ingredients of the tablets of Examples 13-18 are set forth in Table 20 below: TABLE 20 TABLET FORMULATION - EXAMPLES 13-18 Component Amount (%) 1. Sustained-Release Excipient 53.3 2. Diltiazem (granular) 32.0 3. FumaricAcid 8.0 4. Sodium Laurel Sulfate 5.3 5 Pruv® (Sodium Stearyl Fumarate) 1.3 6. Water* 27.0 *Removed during processing Component Amount (mg/tab) 1. Sustained-Release Excipient 400.0 2. Diltiazem (granular) 240.0 3. Fumaric Acid 60.0 4. Sodium Laurel Sulfate 40.0 5. Pruv® (Sodium Stearyl Fumarate) 10.0 . The final tablets have a tablet weight of 750.0 mg. and a hardness of 15 Kp. The core tablets were then coated with an aqueous dispersion of Eudragit L30D55 w/ NaOH, e.g., to a weight gain of 3%, 5%, 7%, and 9% (Examples 15-18, respectively) based on the weight of the whole tablet. The aqueous dispersion was prepared by the following procedure: 1 .ON sodium hydroxide solution is prepared by adding 4.0 g of sodium hydroxide to 50 ml purified water in a volumetric flask and stirring for 5-15 minutes. Purified water is then added to the necessary volume and mixed again. The talc suspension is prepared by slowly adding 9.31 g triethyl citrate to 202.54 g 39 purified water while stirring. While continuing to stir, 22,2 g talc is added to the container over a 3 minute interval. The container is stirred until a suspension is formed. Eudragit suspension is then prepared by passing the Eudragit through a #40 mesh sieve and weighing out 294.52 g. Using a dropper, 1.78 g of 1 .ON sodium hydroxide solution is added to the Eudragit while stirring. The mixture is stirred for 30-60 minutes. While stirring the Eudragit suspension, the talc suspension is added over a 5 minute period and stirred for 30-60 minutes. Dissolution tests were carried out on the tablets of Examples 13-18. The dissolution tests were conducted in 250 ML buffer (ph 6) in an automated USP dissolution apparatus (Paddle type III, 15 CPM), and the amount of drug released was analyzed via UV analysis. The results are set forth in Figure 8 and Table 21 below: From the results provided in Figure 8 and Table 21, it is evident that as the amount (by weight) of the coating increases, the release rate decreases. EXAMPLES 19-20 EFFECT OF COATING TABLETS WITH EUPRAGIT RS30D/RL30Df50/5O) CAmmonio-methacrylic Acid Copolymer Aqueous Dispersion) hrExamples 19-20, a sustained release excipient is prepared accordance with the procedure set forth in Examples 1 and 2. The ingredients of the sustained release excipient of Examples 19 and 20 are set forth in table 22 below: TABLE 22 Component Amount (%) - Ex. 19-20 1. XanthanGum 12 2. Locust Bean Gum 18 3. Dextrose 70 4. Water* 25 * removed during processing Thereafter, diltiazem tablets are prepared as follows: The desired amount of diltiazem , fumaric acid and the sustained release excipient are mixed in a granulator for 3 minutes at low speed. A suitable amount of water is then added over a 2 minute interval with the impeller running at low speed. The resultant slurry is then granulated for 6 minutes with the chopper and impeller on high speed (additional water arid granulation time may be used to form proper granules). The resultant granules are then dried in a fluid bed dryer until LOD is less than 5% and milled with hammer forward at 2000-3000 rpm using screen #0050. The milled granulation is then placed in a V-Blender with sodium lauryl sulfate and blended for 10 minutes. A suitable tableting lubricant (Pruv®, sodium stearyl fumarate, NF, commercially available from Penwest Pharmaceuticals Co. is then added, and the mixture is blended for another 3 minutes. The resultant granulation is then compressed into tablets using a capsule shaped punch. This final mixture is tableted to approximately 50 mg. The ingredients of the tablets of Examples 19-20 are set forth in Figure 9 and Table 23 below: * Removed during processing The final tablets have a weight of 750.0 mg. and a hardness of Kp 15. The core tablet was then coated with an aqueous dispersion of Eudragit RS30D/RL30D(50/50) to a weight gain of 8%, based on the weight of the whole tablet. The aqueous dispersion was prepared by the following procedure: The Eudragit RS/RL suspension is prepared by mixing 100 g of Eudragit RS with 100 g of Eudragit RL. Talc suspension is prepared by slowly adding 12.0 g triethyl citrate to 338.0 g purified water while stirring. While continuing to stir, 50.0 g talc is added to the container over a 3 minute interval. The container is stirred until a suspension is formed. While stirring the Eudragit suspension, the talc suspension is then added over a 5 minute period. The resultant mixture is stirred for 30-60 minutes and screened through a 40 mesh sieve. Dissolution tests were carried out on the tablets of Examples 19-20. The dissolution tests were conducted in 900 ML of 0.1 N HCL in an automated USP dissolution apparatus (Paddle type II, 100 rpm), and the amount of drug released was analyzed via UV analysis. The results are set forth in Figure 9 and Table 24 below: 42 Time (hr) 0 1 3 5 8 10 12 14 16 20 24 From the results provided in Figure 9 and Table 24, it is evident that the coating-decreased the release rate. EXAMPLES 21-23 EFFECT OF COATING TABLETS WITH ETHYLCELLULOSE In Examples 21-23, a sustained release excipient is prepared accordance with the procedure set forth in Examples 1 and 2. The ingredients of the sustained release excipient of Examples 21-23 are set forth in table 25 below: TABLE 25 Component Amount (%) - Ex. 21-23 1. Xanthan Gum 12 2. Locust Bean Gum 18 3. Dextrose 70 4. Water* 25 * Removed during processing Thereafter, diltiazem tablets are prepared as follows: The desired amount of diltiazem , fumaric acid and the sustained release excipient are mixed in a granulator for 3 minutes at low speed. A suitable amount of water is then added H3 over a 2 minute interval with the impeller running at low speed. The resultant slurry is then granulated for 3 minutes with the chopper and impaler on high speed (additional water and granulation time may be used to form proper granules). The resultant granules are then dried in a fluid bed dryer until LOD is less than 5% and milled with hammer forward at 2000-3000 rpm using screen #0050. The milled granulation is then placed in a V-Blender with sodium lauryl sulfate and blended for 10 minutes. A suitable tableting lubricant (Pruv®, sodium stearyl Fumarate, NF, commercially available from Penwest Pharmaceuticals Co. is then added, and the mixture is blended for another 3 minutes. The resultant granulation is then compressed into tablets using a capsule shaped punch. This final mixture is tableted to approximately 750 mg. The ingredients of the tablets of Examples 21-23 are set forth in Table 26 below: The final tablets have a tablet weight of 750.0 mg. and a hardness of 15 Kp. The core tablet was then coated with an aqueous dispersion of Ethylcellulose/Opadry(80/20) to a weight gain of 4% and 6% (Examples 22 and 23, respectively) based on the whole weight of the tablet. The aqueous dispersion was prepared by the following procedure: First, 60 g of Opadry is mixed with 340 g of water in a suitable container. While continuing to mix, 944 g Ethylcellulose is added to the Opadry dispersion. The resultant mixture is stirred for 30-60 minutes. Dissolution tests were then carried out on the tablets of Examples 1-2. The dissolution 44 tests are conducted in 250 ML of buffer (ph 6) in an automated USP dissolution apparatus (Paddle type HI, 15 CPM), and the amount of drug released was analyzed via UV analysis. The results are set forth in Figure 10 and Table 27 below: From the results provided in Figure 10 and Table 27, it is evident that as the amount of coating increased, the release rate decreased. Examples 24-25 EFFECT OF EXCIPIENT ADDITION OUTSIDE GRANULATION Next, tablets were manufactured in accordance with the ingredients of Table 29 45 In Examples 24-25, a sustained release excipient is prepared in accordance with the procedure in Examples 1 and 2. The ingredients of the sustained release excipient of Examples 24 and 25 are set forth in Table 28 below: and the procedure that follows: The final tablets of Example 24 have a tablet weight of 813.0 mg. and a hardness of 15 Kp. The final tablets of Example 25 have a tablet weight of 750.0 mg. and a hardness of 15 Kp. The procedure for preparing the formulations of Examples 24-25 is a s follows: The desired amount of (1), (2), and (4) are dispensed into a granulator and mixed for 3 minutes at low speed; while running the impeller at low speed, (7) is added over a 2 minute interval; the mixture is" granulated for 7.5 minutes with the chopper and the impeller on high speed (additional water and granulation time maybe used to form proper granules); the granulated mixture is dried in a fluid bed dryer until the LOD is less than 5%; the dried granulation is milled with the hammer forward at 2000-3000 rpm using screen #0050; the milled granulation and (5) or (3&5) are placed in a V-Blender and blended for 10 minutes; (6) is added to the V-Blender and blended for 5 minutes. The final mixture is compressed into tablets using a capsule shaped punch. The Eudragit® L30D55 w/NaOH Coating Dispersion was prepared as follows: A. 1 .ON Sodium Hydroxide solution was prepared by adding 4.0g of Sodium Hydroxide to a 100ml volumetric flask; then 50ml of Purified water and a magnetic stir bar were added into the flask and the contents of the .flask were mixed for 5-J 5 minutes; the stir bar was removed and the volume \vas Q.S. and mixed. B. Talc suspension was prepared by weighing 202.54 g of Purified water in a suitable container; 9.31 g of Triethyl Citrate was slowly added while the Purified water was stirred; then 22.22 g of Talc was added over a 2 minute interval to the container while the mixture was stirred (the mixture was stirred until a suspension formed). C. Eudragit® L30D55 Suspension was prepared by passing the Eudragit® L30D55 through a #40 mesh sieve; 294.52 % of sieved Eudrain® L30D55 was weighed and plaeed into a suitable container; using a dropper, 3.56 g of the 1.0N Sodium Hydroxide solution (StepA) was added while the mixture was Stirred; the mixture was stirred for 30-60 minutes. D. The final Coating Suspension was prepared by stirring the Eudragit® L30D55 Suspension (Step C) while Talc suspension (step B) was added over a 5 minute period; the mixture was stirred for 30-60 minutes. The tablets were coated for a weight gain of 4% based on the whole weight of the tablet. The tablets were encapsulated by placing the coated tablets into clear gelatin capsules. PT .AgMA PROFILE OF EXAMPLE 24 In-vivo studies were performed with the tablet of Example 24 using a two way randomized, open label crossover design in healthy volunteers, 12 subjects for each, and they •were dosed in the fasted state and compared with CARDIZEM CD®. The results are set forth in Figure 11 and in Tablet 30 below: RATIO The ratio of the area are under the curve between Example 24 and CARDIZEM CD® 240 mg was 1.16:1. The ratio of the average Cmax between Example 25 and Cardizem CD 240 mg was 1.16:1. Outcome: Figure 11 and Example 24 demonstrated a Bi-Modal plasma level in-vivo, the CARDIZEM CD® also demonstrated Bi-Modal plasma levels by the mixture of two differently processed bead formulations. Plasma Profile of Example 25 In-vivo studies were performed with the tablets of Example 25 using a two way randomized, open label crossover design in healthy volunteers, 12 subjects for each and they were dosed in the fasted state and compared with CARDIZEM CD® . The results set forth in Figure 12 and in Table 31 below: 48 Table 31 Time (hours) EXAMPLE Fasted fae\mn Cardizem-CD Fasted fneVmfl 0 0.00 0.00 1 0.30 0.05 2 6.55 0.40 4 35.43 5.48 6 77.71 66.02 7 76.91 58.31 8 70.88 47.29 9 66.18 39.31 10 64.98 35.51 12 71.90 38.55 14 65.48 41.66 15 62.72 47.32 16 60.60 49.73 18 48.87 51.16 20 38.95 45.75 24 33.10 41.44 30 20.93 28.40 36 10.14 14.88 48 2.52 4.00 The ratio of the area under the curve between Example 25 and Cardizem CD 240 mg. was 1.16:1. The ratio of the average Cmax between Example 25 and Cardizem CD 240 mg. was 1.26:1. Outcome: Figure 12 and Example 25 demonstrated a Bi-Modal plasma level in-vivo, CARDIZEM CD® also demonstrated Bi-Modal plasma levels by the mixture of two differently processed bead formulations. Examples 26 and 27 EFFECT OF DIFFERENT EXCIPIENTS In Examples 26 and 27, a sustained release excipient is prepared in accordance with the procedure set froth in Examples 1 and 3. The ingredients of the sustained release excipient of Examples 25 and 26 are set forth in Table 32 below: 49 Table 32 ♦Removed during processing Formulation Table 33 Thereafter, diltiazem tablets are prepared as follows: The desired amount of diltiazem, fumaric acid and the sustained release excipient are placed in a granulator and mixed for 3 minutes at low speed. Water is added over a 2 minute interval while the impeller is running at low speed (additional water and granulation time may be used to form proper granules). The resultant granules are then dried in a fluid bed dryer until LOD is less than %5 and milled with hammer forward at 2000-3000 rpm using screen #0050. The milled granulation is then placed in a V-Blender with sodium lauryl sulfate and blended for 10 minutes. A suitable tableting lubricant (Pruv®, sodium stearyl fumarate, NF, commercially available from Penwest Pharmaceuticals Co. is added, and the mixture is blended for another 5 minutes. The resultant granulation is then compressed into tablets using a capsule shaped punch. This final mixture is tableted to approximately 750 mg. The ingredients of the tablets of Examples 26 and 27 are set forth in Table 33 below: Table 33 50 The final tablets in Example 26 have a tablet weight of 750.0 mg. and a hardness of 15 Kp. The final tablets in Example 27 have a tablet weight of 750.0 mg. and a hardness of 15 Kp. Dissolution tests were then carried out on the tablets of Example 26 and 27 in 250 ML buffer (pH 6) in an automated USP dissolution apparatus (Paddle type HI, 15CPM), and the amount of drug released was analyzed via UV analysis. The in-vitro are set forth in Figure 13 and Table 34 below: Table 34 Example 26 had a dissolution profile that was slower than Example 25. Outcome Dissolution rate can be modified by using different grades of excipient. EXAMPLES 28-29 EFFECT OF GUM:DRUG RATIO FN FORMULATION In Example 28-29, sustained release excipients in accordance with the present invention are first prepared, the medicament (in this case oxybutynin) and the pH modifying agent (in this case being succinic acid) being added subsequently, and the final mixture then being tableted. 51 The sustained release excipient is prepared by dispensing xanthan gum, locust bean gum dextrose and calcium sulfate into a high shear mixer/granulator, dispensing ethyl cellulose into a vessel containing ethanol, dispensing the ethyl cellulose/ethanol mixture into the xanthan gum, locust bean gum, dextrose, calcium sulfate mixture and granulating to form proper granules, drying the mixture in a fluid bed dryer and milling the dried material to form proper granules. The ingredients of the sustained-release excipient of Examples 28-29 are set forth in Table 35 below: Table 35 PREPARATION OF SUSTAINED-RELEASE EXCIPIENT Component Amount (%) - Ex. 28 Amount.(%) - Ex. 29 1. Xanthan Gum 20 15 2. Locust Bean Gum 30 15 3. Dextrose 40 60 4. Calcium Sulfate 10 10 5. Water* 20-30 20-30 * Removed during processing. Next, the desired amount of oxybutynin and sodium stearyl fumarate are screened through a 25 mesh sieve, the screened oxybutynin and sustained release excipient are dispensed into a V-blender and blended for 10 minutes, the screened sodium stearyl fumarate is added into the blended mixture of oxybutynin and sustained-release excipient and blended for an additional 5 minutes, the final blended end product is then compressed into tablets using a 5/16" round shaped tooling. This final mixture is tableted to approximately 179.4 mg. The ingredients of the tablets of Examples 28-29 are set forth in Tables 36 and 37 below: 5 2 TABLE 36 TABLET FORMULATION - EXAMPLE 28 TABLE 37 TABLET FORMULATION - EXAMPLE 29 Component Amount (%) Amount ("mg/tab") 1. Sustained Release Excipient 92.9 166.7 2. Oxybutynin HCL 5.6 10.0 3." Sodium Stearvl Fumarate 1.5 2/7 Tablet weight 179.4 Hardness (Kp) 5 The final tablets have a tablet weight of 179.4.0 mg and a hardness of 5 Kp. Dissolution tests were then carried out on the tablets of Examples 28-29. The in-vitro dissolution results are set forth in Table 38 below. TABLE 38 The formulation of Example 28 has a drug:gum ratio of 1:5 and the formulation of 53 Example 29 has a drug:gum ratio of 1:8.3. From the results provided in Table 38, it is evident that the rate of release of oxybutynin is slower as the drug:gum ratio in the formulations is increased. EXAMPLES 30-31 EFFECT OF GUM:DEXTROSE RATIO In Examples 30-31, a sustained release excipient is prepared in accordance with the procedure set forth in Examples 28 and 29. The ingredients of the sustained release excipient of Examples 30 and 31 are set forth in Table 39 below: TABLE 39 Thereafter, oxybutynin tablets are prepared as follows: The desired amount of oxybutynin and sodium stearyl fumarate are screened through a 25 mesh sieve, the screened oxybutynin and sustained release excipient are dispensed into a V-blender and blended for 10 minutes, the screened sodium stearyl fumarate is added into the blended mixture of oxybutynin and sustained-release excipient and blended for an additional 5 minutes, the final blended end product is then compressed into tablets using a 5/16" round shaped tooling. This final mixture is tableted to approximately 179.4 mg. The ingredients of the tablets of Examples 30-31 are set forth in Tables 40 and 41 below: 54 TABLE 40 TABLE 41 The final tablets have a tablet weight of 17940 mg and a hardness of 5 Kp. Dissolution tests were then carried out on the tablets of Examples 30-31. The in-vitro dissolution results are set forth in Table 38 below. TABLE 42 From the results provided in Table 42, it is evident that as the amount of gum relativ to the amount of dextrose is increased, a corresponding decrease in release of oxybutynin is observed. EXAMPLES 32-35 EFFECT OF SUCCINIC ACID In Examples 32-33, a sustained release excipient is prepared in accordance with the procedure set forth in Examples 28 and 29. The ingredients of the sustained release excipient of Examples 32 and 33 are set forth in Table 43 below: TABLE 43 Component Amount (%) - Ex. 32-33 1 Xanthan Gum 25 2 Locust Bean Gum 25 3 Dextrose 35 4 Calcium Sulfate 10 5 Ethyl Cellulose 5 6 Water* 20-30 * Removed during processing Thereafter, oxybutynin tablets are prepared as follows: The desired amount of succinic acid, oxybutynin and sodium stearyl fumarate are screened through a 25 mesh sieve, the screened succinic acid and sustained release excipient •are dispensed into a V-blender and blended for 10 minutes, the screened oxybutynin is added into the blended mixture of succinic acid and sustained-release excipient and blended for an additional 5 minutes, the screened sodium stearyl fumarate is added to the blended mixture of oxybutynin, succinic acid and sustained-release excipient and blended for an additional 5 minutes, the final blended end product is then compressed into tablets using a 5/16" round shaped tooling. The final mixture of Example 32 is tableted to approximately 251.0 mg and the final mixture of Example 33 is tableted to approximately 296.0 mg. The ingredients in Examples 32-33 are set forth in Tables 44 and 45 below: 56 TABLE 44 The final tablets have a tablet weight of 296.0 mg and a hardness of 8 Kp. Dissolution tests were then carried out on the tablets of Examples 32-33. The in-vitro dissolution results are set forth in Table 46 below: TABLE 46 Time (hr) Ex. 32 (% dissolved) Ex. 33 (% dissolved) (0%) (15%) 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.0 1.3 8.9 4.0 2.1 12.9 6.0 4.7 24.0 8.0 11.3 34.0 12.0 25.9 44.0 20.0 43.9 59.5 57 From the Tesuits provided in Table 46, it is evident th3t fee addition of Succinic Acid aids in the solubility of the drug substance, therefore, increasing the release rate. In Examples 34-35, a sustained release excipient is prepared in accordance with the procedure set forth in Examples 28 and 29. The ingredients of the sustained release excipient of Exarnples 34 and 35 are set forth in Table 47 below: TABLE 47 Component Amount (%) - Ex. 34-35 1 Xanthan Gum 25 2 Locust Bean Gum 25 3 Pextrose 35 A . Calcium Sulfate 10 5 Ethyl Cellulose 5 6 Water* 20-30. * Removed during processing Thereafter, oxybutynin tablets are prepared as follows: The desired amount of sustained-release excipient, succinic acid, and oxybutynin are dispensed into a granulator. They are dry mixed for 3 minutes with the impeller at low speed with the chopper blade in the off position. Water is added over a 1 minute interval, then the mixture is granulated at high speed for 3 minutes (additional water and granulation time may be used to form proper granules). Next, the mixture is dried in a fluid bed dryer until the LOD is less than 5%. The dried granulation is milled with the blade forward at 2000-3000 rpm. The milled granulation and sodium stearyl fumarate are placed into a V-Blender and blended for 10 rriinutes. The blended mixture is then compressed into tablets using a 5/16" round shaped tooling. The final mixture of Example 34 is tableted to approximately 296.0 mg and the final mixture of Example 35 is tableted to approximately 266.0 mg. The ingredients in Examples 34-35 are set forth in Tables 48 and 49 below: 58 TABLE 48 * Removed during processing The final tablets have a tablet weight of 296.0.0 mg and a hardness of 8 Kp. TABLE 49 TABLET FORMULATION - EXAMPLE 35 Component Amount (%) Amount (mg/tab) 1. Sustained Release Excipient 88.0 234.0 2. Succinic Acid 5.6 15.0 3. Oxybutynin HCL 5.6 15.0 4. Sodium Stearyl Fumarate 0.8 2.0 5. Water* 30-45 N/A Tablet weight 266.0 Hardness (Kp) 8 * Removed during processing The final tablets have a tablet weight of 266.0 mg and a hardness of 8 Kp. Dissolution tests were then carried out on the tablets of Examples 34-35. The in-vitro dissolution results are set forth in Table 50 below: 59 From the results provided in Table 50, it is evident that the higher the amount of Succinic Acid in the formulation the faster the release rate. EXAMPLE 36 EFFECT OF COATING TABLETS WITH ETHYLCELLULOSE (SURELEASE)/OPADRY* (80/20) AQUEOUS DISPERSION The procedure for preparing the Efhylcellulose/Opadry® coating is as follows: First, weigh 340 g of Water in a suitable container, add 60 g of Opadry® to the water while mixing. Continue to mix. While mixing the Opadry® dispersion, add 933 g of Ethyleellulose dispersion (Surelease®) and allow to stir for 30-60 minutes. The final dispersion is used to coat the tablets for a weight gain of 3-5% based on the whole weight of the tablet. In Example 36, a sustained release excipient is prepared in accordance with the procedure set forth in Examples 28 and 29. The ingredients of the sustained release excipient of Example 36 is set forth in Table 51 below: 60 TABLE 51 Thereafter, oxybutynin tablets are prepared as follows: The desired amount of sustained-release excipient, succinic acid, and oxybutynin are dispensed into a granulator. They are dry mixed for 3 minutes with the impeller at low speed with the chopper blade in the off position. Water is added over a 1 minute interval, then the mixture is granulated at high speed for 3 minutes (additional water and granulation time may be used to form proper granules). Next, the mixture is dried in a fluid bed dryer until the LOD is less than 5%. The dried granulation is milled with the blade forward at 2000-3000 rpm. The milled granulation and sodium stearyl fumarate are placed into a V-Blender and blended for 10 minutes. The blended mixture is then compressed into tablets using a 5/16" round shaped tooling. The final mixture of Example 36 is tableted to approximately 296.0 mg. The ingredients in Examples 36 is set forth in Table 52 below: TABLE 52 * Removed during processing 61 The final tablets have a tablet weight of 296.0.0 mg and a hardness of 8 Kp. Dissolution tests were then carried out on the tablets of Example 36. The in-vitro dissolution results are set forth in Table 53 below: From the results provided in Table 53, it is evident that as the amount, by weight of coating increased, the release rate decreased. EXAMPLE 37 EFFECT OF FUMARIC ACE) In Example 37, a sustained-release excipient is prepared in accordance with the procedure set forth in Examples 28-29. The ingredients of the sustained-release excipient of Example 37 is set forth in Table 54 below: TABLE 54 Component Amount (%) - Ex. 37 1 Xanthan Gum 25 2 Locust Bean Gum 25 3 Dextrose 35 4 Calcium Sulfate 10 5 Ethyl Cellulose 5 6-, Water* 20-30 * Removed during processing 62 TABLET FORMULATION - EXAMPLE!! Component Amount (mg/tab) 1. Sustained Release Excipient 166.7 2. Oxybutynin HCL 15 3. Fumaric Acid 30 4. Pray® 2 Total (core only) 213.7 The final tablets have a tablet weight of 213.7mg. Dissolution tests were then carried out on the tablets of Example 37 in comparison to Ditropan XL. The in-vitro dissolution results are set forth in Table 55 below: TABLE 55 % Dissolved/Released Recovery 98.4 98.0 Other formulations of Oxybutynin wherein the pH modifying agent comprises fumaric icid are set forth in Table 56 below: 63 TABLE 56 The examples provided above are not meant to be exclusive. Many other variations of the present invention would be obvious to those skilled in the art, and are contemplated to be within the scope of the appended claims. 64 We Claim: 1. A method of preparing a bioavailable sustained release oral solid dosage form for soluble to highly soluble therapeutically active medicaments, comprising; a) preparing a sustained release granulate comprising a gelling agent, said gelling agent comprising a heteropolysaccharide gum and a homopolysaceharide gum capable of cross-linking said heteropolysaccharide gum when exposed to an environmental fluid; thereafter b) adding to said sustained release granulate a therapeutically effective amount of a medicament having a solubility of more than about 10 g/1 and a pH modifying agent comprising an organic acid that facilitates the release of said medicament from said dosage form to form a mixture; and c) granulating and compressing the mixture of step b) into a solid dosage form, said dosage form providing a sustained release of said medicament after oral administration to human patients. 2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sustained release granulate optionally comprises up to 20% by weight of an ionizable gel strength enhancing agent. 3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sustained release granulate optionally comprises from 1% to 89% by weight of an inert diluent. 4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sustained release granulate optionally comprises a surfactant. 5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sustained release granulate optionally comprises from 1% to 20% by weight of a hydrophobic material. 6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sustained release granulate is prepared by dry granulation. 7. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sustained release granulate is prepared by wet granulation 8. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said dosage form provides a sustained release of said medicament for at least 12 hours after oral administration. 9. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said dosage form provides a sustained release of said medicament for at least 24 hours after oral administration. 65 10. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said medicament has a solubility of more than 100 g/1 11./ The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said medicament has a solubility of more than about 1000 g/1. 12., The method as claimed in claim 3, wherein said inert diluent is selected from the group consisting of monosaccharide, a disaccharide, a polyhydric alcohol, and mixtures thereof. ljk The method as claimed in claim 3, wherein the ratio of said inert diluent to said gelling agent is from 1:3 to 3:1. 14^/rhe method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ratio of said medicament to said gelling agent is from 1:5 to 5:1 IE/ The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein said ionizable gel strength enhancing agent selected from the group consisting of an alkali metal, an alkaline earth metal sulfate, chloride, borate, bromide, citrate, acetate, and lactate. 1#" The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein said ionizable gel strength enhancing agent comprises calcium sulfate. 17/ The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said heteropolysaccharide gum is xanthan gum and said homopolysaccharide gum is locust bean gum. IS. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said organic acid is selected from the group consisting of citric acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, malic acid, maleic acid. glutaric acid, lactic acid, and combinations thereof. 19. The method as claimed in claim 1. wherein said organic acid is fumaric acid. 20. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said pH modifying agent is present in an amount from 1% to 10%. 2L/"" The method as claimed in claim 4. wherein said surfactant is selected from the group consisting of anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, amphoteric (amphipathic/ amphophilic) surfactants, and non-ionic surfactants. 22. The method as claimed in claim 4, wherein said surfactant is selected from the ^ group consisting of sodium lauryl sulfate and a pharmaceutically effective salt of docusate. 23x The method as claimed in claim 5, wherein said hydrophobic material is selected 66 front the group consisting of an alkylcellulose, a copolymer of acrylic and methacrylic acid esters, waxes, shellac, zein, hydrogenated vegetable oil, and mixtures thereof. 24. The method as claimed in claim 5, wherein said hydrophobic material is ethylcellulose. 25^ The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said mixture optionally comprises from 1 to 10% by weight microcrystalline cellulose. 26. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said medicament is a benzothiazine. 2J/ The method as claimed in claim 26, wherein said benzothiazine is diltiazem or a pharmaceutically effective salt thereof. 281 The method as claimed in claim 27, which provides a sustained release of said diltiazem for at least 12 hours after oral administration to human patients. 29. The method as claimed in claim 28, wherein said diltiazem is present in an amount from 60 mg to 120 mg. 30. The method as claimed in claim 27, which provides a sustained release of said diltiazem for at least 24 hours after oral administration to human patients. 31. The method as claimed in claim 30, wherein said diltiazem is present in an amount from 120 mg to 300 mg. 32. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said medicament is an antispasmodic agent. 33. The method as claimed in claim 32, wherein said antispasmodic drug is oxybutynin or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. 34. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said antispasmodic agent is oxybutynin chloride. 35. The method as claimed in claim 33, which provides a sustained release of said oxybutynin for at least 12 hours after oral administration to human patients. 36. The method as claimed in claim 35, wherein said oxybutynin is present in an amount from 2.5 mg to 25 mg. 37. The method as claimed in claim 33, which provides a sustained release of said oxybutynin for at least 24 hours after oral administration to human patients. 38. The method as claimed in claim 37, wherein said oxybutynin is present in an amount from 5 mg to 50 mg. 39. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said solid dosage form is a tablet. 40. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said solid dosage form is in granular form. 41. The method as claimed in claim 40, wherein a sufficient amount of said granules to provide an effective dose of said medicament is disposed in a pharmaceutically acceptable capsule. 42. The method as claimed in claim 39, wherein at least part of a surface of said tablet is coated with a hydrophobic material to a weight gain of from 1 to 20 percent, by weight. 43. The method as claimed in claim 4, which provides a bimodal absorption profile of said medicament, 44. The method as claimed in claim 27, wherein said dosage form provides an initial peak concentration (Cmax #1) of said diltiazem in about 4 to about 10 hours after oral administration of the dosage form, followed by a second peak concentration (Cmax #2) which occurs in about 10 to about 16 hours after oral administration of the dosage form, said dosage form providing a therapeutic effect for at least 24 hours after oral administration to a human patient. 45. The method as claimed in claim 44, wherein said time to first peak plasma concentration (Tmax #1) of diltiazem occurs in 6 to 8 hours after oral administration of the dosage form to the patient. 46. The method as claimed in claim 44, wherein the maximum plasma concentration of diltiazem at the first Tmax (Cmax #1) is from 50 to 100 ng/ml, per administration of a 240 mg dosage of diltiazem. 47. The method as claimed in claim 44, wherein the second peak plasma concentration (Cmax#2) occurs in 12 to 14 hours after oral administration of the dosage form to the patient (Tmax #2) 48. The method as claimed in claim 47, wherein the maximum plasma concentration of diltiazem at Cmax #2 is from about 60 to about 90 ng/ml, per 240 mg of diltiazem. 49. The method as claimed in claim 44, wherein the width of the plasma concentration curve at 50% of the height of Cmax #1, based on a trough taken as the Cmin between Cmax #1 and Cmax # 2 is from 0.5 to 4.0 hours. 50. The method as claimed in claim 44, wherein the width of the plasma concentration curve at 50% of the height of Cmax # 1, based on a trough taken as the Cmin between Cmax # 1 and Cmax #2 is from 1 to 3 hours. 51. The method as claimed in claim 44, wherein the width of the plasma concentration curve at 50% of the height of Cmax #2, based on a trough taken as the Cmin between Cmax #1 and Cmax #2 is from 0.5 to 8 hours. 52. The method as claimed in claim 44, wherein the width of the plasma concentration curve at 50% of the height of Cmax ~2, based on a trough taken as the Cmin between Cmax # 1 and Cmax #2 is from about 2 to about 6 hours. 53. The method as claimed in claim 44, wherein the ratio of Cmax #1 to Cmax #2 is from 0.5:1 to 1.5:1. 54. The method as claimed in claim 53 wherein the ratio of Cmax #1 to Cmax #2 is from 0.7:1-to 1.2:1 Dated this 25th day of May, 2001. [RANJNA MEHTA-DUTT] of Remfry & Sagar Attorney for the Applicants

Documents:

abstract1.jpg

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-cancelled pages(25-4-2005).pdf

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-claims(granted)-(25-4-2005).pdf

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-correspondence(6-8-2007).pdf

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-correspondence(ipo)-(21-7-2011).pdf

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-correspondence(ipo)-(5-10-2006).pdf

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-drawing(25-4-2005).pdf

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-form 1(25-5-2001).pdf

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-form 13(6-5-2005).pdf

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-form 13(7-8-2007).pdf

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-form 19(26-3-2004).pdf

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-form 1a(7-8-2007).pdf

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-form 2(granted)-(25-4-2005).pdf

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-form 3(25-04-2005).pdf

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-form 3(25-5-2001).pdf

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-form 5(25-5-2001).pdf

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-form-pct-isa-210(28-5-2001).pdf

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-petition under rule 137(25-4-2005).pdf

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-petition under rule 138(25-4-2005).pdf

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-power of authority(2-7-2001).pdf

in-pct-2001-00598-mum-power of authority(25-4-2005).pdf

in-pct-2001-0598-mum-claims(granted)-(25-4-2005).doc

IN-PCT-2001-0598-MUM-CORRESPONDENCE(11-9-2012).pdf

in-pct-2001-0598-mum-form 2(granted)-(25-4-2005).doc

IN-PCT-2001-0598-MUM-POWER OF ATTORNEY(11-9-2012).pdf