Multilayer tablet

Abstract

A multilayer oral dosage form that provides controlled release of an active compound includes a non-erodible core containing a pharmaceutically active compound and/or a nutritionally active compound, and at least one release-modulating layer laminated to each side of the core layer. The dosage form can be prepared using simple, inexpensive tablet compression techniques.

The invention claimed is: 
     
         1 . A trilayer tablet, comprising:
 a porous, non-erodible core layer containing at least one pharmaceutically active compound and/or at least one nutritionally active compound; and   at least one erodible layer laminated to each side of the non-erodible core layer;   wherein the porous, non-erodible core layer comprises at least one insoluble polymer defining a matrix.   
     
     
         2 . The trilayer tablet of  claim 1 , wherein the active compound is soluble in a gastrointestinal fluid. 
     
     
         3 . The trilayer tablet of  claim 1 , wherein the active compound is selected from Tramadol HCl, Bupropion and Propanolol. 
     
     
         4 . The trilayer tablet of  claim 1 , in which the porous, non-erodible core layer further comprises a pore-forming material. 
     
     
         5 . The trilayer tablet of  claim 1 , in which at least one insoluble polymer in the porous non-erodible core layer is a swellable insoluble polymer. 
     
     
         6 . The trilayer tablet of  claim 1 , wherein the layers laminated to each side of the core layer are comprised of at least one swellable erodible polymer. 
     
     
         7 . The trilayer tablet of  claim 1 , wherein at least one of the erodible layers comprises at least one polymer that is permeable to water. 
     
     
         8 . The trilayer tablet of  claim 1 , wherein at least one of the erodible layers comprises at least one insoluble polymer. 
     
     
         9 . The trilayer tablet of  claim 1 , wherein at least one of the erodible layers comprises from about 10% to about 30% by weight of at least one insoluble polymer. 
     
     
         10 . The trilayer tablet of  claim 1 , wherein at least one of the erodible layers comprises from about 15% to about 25% by weight of at least one insoluble polymer.