Lansoprazole fast disintegrating tablet: a new formulation for an established proton pump inhibitor

Lansoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) which is an effective and well-tolerated treatment option in the management of acid-related disorders. Lansoprazole fast disintegrating tablet (LFDT)--a new, patient-friendly and more convenient formulation of lansoprazole which can be taken with or without water--is the first PPI to be made available as an orally disintegrating tablet. It represents an innovative drug delivery system, comprising enteric-coated microgranules of lansoprazole compressed with an inactive, rapidly dispersing matrix to form a tablet. When the tablet is placed on the tongue and sucked gently it disintegrates rapidly in the mouth, releasing the enteric-coated microgranules which are swallowed with the patient's saliva without water. Alternatively, the tablet can be swallowed with a drink of water. Studies have shown that the bioavailability of LFDT is comparable to lansoprazole capsules, at both 15 and 30 mg doses; the indications and recommended dosages for LFDT are therefore identical to lansoprazole capsules. The new formulation may be of particular benefit to those with active life-styles who do not always have water available, patients who have difficulty in swallowing, and elderly patients.