Extended-Release Diltiazem Formulations
The coated-bead extended-release diltiazem formulation is not explicitly identified by brand name in the provided evidence, but coated-bead technology using polymers like Eudragit® is a well-established method for achieving sustained release of diltiazem hydrochloride.
Understanding Diltiazem Extended-Release Technologies
Extended-release diltiazem formulations utilize various pharmaceutical technologies to achieve sustained drug delivery:
Coated-Bead Systems
- Polymer-coated beads represent one approach to modified release, where diltiazem-containing beads are coated with functional polymers 1
- Eudragit® RS and RL 30D are cationic copolymers frequently used for coating solid dosage forms, including diltiazem beads 1
- These coatings contain quaternary ammonium groups that theoretically provide pH-independent release, though actual release is influenced by ionic interactions with buffer species 1
Alternative Technologies
Recent pharmaceutical innovations for diltiazem modified-release include 2:
- Hydrophilic matrices using HPMC
- Coated pellets with ethylcellulose or Eudragit®
- Microspheres prepared via spray drying or solvent evaporation
- Osmotic systems
- Ion-exchange resin complexes using cation-exchange resins as single excipients 3
Clinical Dosing Context
According to FDA labeling 4, standard immediate-release diltiazem tablets may be swallowed whole, crushed, or chewed, with dosing typically 30-120 mg four times daily. Extended-release formulations mentioned in guidelines 5, 6, 7, 6 reference "120-360 mg daily in divided or single dose with long-acting formulations" 6, 7, 6, though specific bead-coating technology is not detailed.
Important Caveat
The provided evidence does not specify commercial brand names that definitively use coated-bead technology versus other extended-release mechanisms. Multiple extended-release diltiazem products exist in clinical practice, and determining which specific formulation uses coated-bead technology would require consulting individual product prescribing information or contacting manufacturers directly.