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Modifying the release of gentamicin from microparticles using a PLGA blend
Wolfgang Friess1, Monika Schlapp
1Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Erlangen, Cauerstr. 4, 91058 Erlangen, Germany. wolfgang.friess@lrz.uni-muenchen.de
Pharmaceutical Development and Technology
|June 18, 2002
Summary
Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microparticles offer improved gentamicin (GS) release for local treatment. A blend of uncapped and endcapped polymers provides controlled GS liberation over approximately one week.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Current gentamicin (GS) carrier systems (collagen sponges, polymethylmethacrylate beads) have suboptimal GS release profiles.
- Developing advanced drug delivery systems is crucial for effective local antibiotic therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To engineer poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles for controlled gentamicin (GS) release over approximately one week.
- To investigate the impact of polymer properties on GS release kinetics.
Main Methods:
- Formulation of PLGA microparticles using various poly(alpha-hydroxy acid)s.
- Characterization of GS release profiles, water uptake, and polymer molecular weight changes.
- Evaluation of uncapped (Resomer RG 502H) and endcapped (Resomer RG 503) polymer blends.
Main Results:
- No single poly(alpha-hydroxy acid) achieved the desired week-long GS release.
- A 50/50 blend of Resomer RG 502H and Resomer RG 503 demonstrated a targeted GS liberation profile.
- The blend controlled GS release, limiting it to 30% in the first two days, with sustained release over one week.
Conclusions:
- A blend of uncapped and endcapped PLGA (Resomer) offers tunable drug release properties.
- This approach provides a novel strategy for adjusting drug release kinetics from poly(alpha-hydroxy acid) carriers.
- Optimized PLGA microparticles show promise for local gentamicin delivery.