Ashland announced the launch of Klucel™ xtend HPC, as an extended release “former” excipient. The reduced polymer concentration achievable with Klucel™ xtend HPC offers the possibility of smaller pills or higher dosage. This new excipient works with many APIs in multiple manufacturing processes: dry-granulation, wet-granulation, direct compression, and hot-melt extrusion.
This controlled release matrix former presents an option for easier tablet swallowability or a reduction in the number of tablets required for frequent medication. This will help improve patient compliance with drug regimens at a time when compliance is a major stumbling block for those with chronic disease or other serious illnesses.