[Artificial neural network parameters optimization software and its application in the design of sustained release tablets].

Artificial neural network (ANN) is a multi-objective optimization method that needs mathematic and statistic knowledge which restricts its application in the pharmaceutical research area. An artificial neural network parameters optimization software (ANNPOS) programmed by the Visual Basic language was developed to overcome this shortcoming. In the design of a sustained release formulation, the suitable parameters of ANN were estimated by the ANNPOS. And then the Matlab 5.0 Neural Network Toolbox was used to determine the optimal formulation. It showed that the ANNPOS reduced the complexity and difficulty in the ANN's application.