The objective was to formulate itopride HCl (ITP) extended release matrix-coated pellets by extrusion–spheronization and to investigate the influence of concentration and viscosity grade of different polymers on release of a highly water soluble drug. The matrix pellet formulations consisted of polymers (10–30%) like hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC K4M, K15M, and K100M), ethyl cellulose (EC-7 cps), microcrystalline cellulose (10–30%) and a fixed quantity of lactose (10%).