Question

Based on their half-lives, which drug would you select for a sustained-release tablet?

• A. \( \text{Metformin (6 hr)} \)
• B. \( \text{Heroin (2-6 mins)} \)
• C. \( \text{Cocaine (50 mins)} \)
• D. \( \text{Amlodipine (20 hrs)} \)

Hint:

Sustained-release formulations help maintain steady drug levels, improving compliance and therapeutic efficacy.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Sustained-release tablets are suitable for drugs with moderate half-lives (~4-8 hours), ensuring controlled drug release. Metformin (6 hr) fits this profile, allowing prolonged therapeutic action while reducing dosing frequency. Drugs with very short or long half-lives are less suited for sustained-release formulations.