Properties and Applications of Polyethylene Oxide and Ethylcellulose for Tamper Resistance and Controlled Drug Delivery

Abstract

Polyethylene oxide, by virtue of its thermoplastic behavior, may be a suitable polymer for pharmaceutical dosage form using hot-melt extrusion technology. Applications of high molecular weight POLYOX allows formulation of extended-release melt-extruded matrices. Combination of different grades of POLYOX and other polymers enables formulators to tailor the release profile of drugs, as well as enhance melt-extrusion processing. POLYOX has been widely studied and used in pharmaceutical applications such as controlled release of drugs in osmotic pumps, hydrophilic matrices, mucoadhesion, oral films, gastroretentive systems, and abuse-resistance technologies. Ethylcellulose is well known for its barrier membrane coatings for extended-release applications. Due to its thermal properties, it has been successfully used in hot-melt extrusion and injection molding. In this chapter, specific pharmaceutical applications, where thermal behavior of POLYOX and ethyl cellulose has been utilized in the design and manufacture of the melt-extruded dosage form, will be discussed.