Controlled release pharmaceutical composition

A solid, controlled release, pharmaceutical composition comprising an active ingredient incorporated in a controlled release matrix comprising a water soluble polydextrose. The controlled release matrix may also contain at least one of a digestible C8-C50 substituted or unsubstituted hydrocarbon, especially a C12-C36 fatty alcohol, and a polyalkylene glycol, especially polyethylene glycol. Optionally, the matrix may contain a cellulose ether, especially a hydroxyalkylcellulose or a carboxyalkylcellulose.