The Intestinal Protective Drug Absorption System (IPDAS® Technology) is a high density multiparticulate tablet technology, intended for use with GI irritant compounds.

Benefits of Elan’s IPDAS® Technology:

• High density multiparticulate formulation
• Intestinal protection from irritant drugs (eg NSAIDs)
• Advantages of multiparticulate in a tablet form
• Controlled Release through process of diffusion
• Fast onset if required        

IPDAS®, Intestinal Protective Drug Absorption System, was initially developed as part of the development process for Elan’s proprietary naproxen formulation, Naprelan®. The objective was to develop a once daily controlled release system that would have a fast onset of action and reduced gastric irritancy. IPDAS® delivery system can also be employed to confer the advantages of multiparticulate technology, in a tablet dosage form. The IPDAS® technology is composed of numerous high density controlled release beads, which are compressed into a tablet form.

Once an IPDAS® tablet is ingested, it rapidly disintegrates and disperses beads containing a drug in the stomach, which subsequently pass into the duodenum and along the gastrointestinal tract in a controlled and gradual manner, independent of the feeding state.

Release of active ingredient from the multiparticulates occurs through a process of diffusion either through the polymeric membrane and or the micromatrix of polymer/active ingredient formed in the extruded/spheronized multiparticulates. The intestinal protection of IPDAS® technology is by virtue of the multiparticulate nature of the formulation, which ensures wide dispersion of irritant drug throughout the gastrointestinal tract.

Naprelan®, which is marketed in the United States and Canada, employs the IPDAS® technology. This innovative formulation of naproxen sodium is a unique controlled release formulation indicated both for acute and chronic pain.