Bioactive polymers 66. Theophylline retardation in xanthan-based hydrogels

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Pharmaceutical Technology
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Hydrogels are crucial for controlled drug delivery systems.
• Developing effective drug retardation materials is essential for therapeutic efficacy.
• Xanthan gum, a natural polysaccharide, offers potential for biomaterial applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize a novel hydrogel from xanthan and epichlorohydrin for drug retardation.
• To investigate the swelling behavior and drug loading capacity of the synthesized hydrogel.
• To evaluate the controlled release kinetics of theophylline from the hydrogel matrix.

Main Methods:

• Reticulation of xanthan gum with epichlorohydrin to form a hydrogel.
• Swelling studies to determine hydrogel water uptake capacity.
• Drug loading of theophylline into the hydrogel via diffusion.
• In vitro drug release studies using a closed recirculation system.

Main Results:

• The synthesized hydrogel exhibited significant swelling, reaching up to 1000% degree of swelling.
• High drug loading capacity was achieved, with concentrations around 150 mg theophylline/g dry hydrogel.
• Controlled release of theophylline was demonstrated, following zero-order kinetics for 14 hours.

Conclusions:

• Xanthan-epichlorohydrin hydrogels are promising materials for controlled drug retardation.
• The developed hydrogel system facilitates efficient drug loading and sustained release.
• The zero-order release kinetics indicate potential for predictable and stable drug delivery.