In certain cases immediate release of drug is undesirable. A delay of drug action may be required for a variety of reasons. Chronotherapy is an example of when drug release may be programmed to occur after a prolonged interval following administration. Elan’s Chronotherapeutic Oral Drug Absorption System (CODAS™ Technology) was developed to achieve this prolonged interval.

Benefits of Elan’s CODAS™ Technology include:

• delivery profile designed to compliment circadian pattern
• controlled onset, extended release delivery system
• rate of release essentially independent of pH, posture and food
• “sprinkle” dosing by opening the capsule and sprinkling the contents on food
• Allow for reduction in effective daily dose and drug exposure
• Target the lower gastrointestinal tract for local effect
• Minimize systemic exposure and achieve a target profile

Elan’s drug delivery technology can be tailored to release drug after a predetermined delay. The CODAS™ drug delivery system enables a delayed onset of drug release, resulting in a drug release profile that more accurately compliments circadian patterns.

CODAS™ Product Development
Elan’s Verelan® PM represents a commercialized product using the CODAS™ technology. The Verelan® PM formulation was designed to begin releasing Verapamil approximately four to five hours post ingestion. When taken at bedtime, this controlled onset extended release delivery system enables a maximum plasma concentration of Verapamil in the morning hours, when blood pressure normally rises from its overnight low.