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Published on: December 27, 2013
Biodegradable polymers for microencapsulation of drugs
Jae Hyung Park1, Mingli Ye, Kinam Park
1Department of Pharmaceutics and Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)
|November 17, 2007
Summary
Biodegradable polymers in microparticle form offer controlled drug release due to their biocompatibility. This review covers microencapsulation technologies and polymer characteristics for advanced drug delivery systems.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Science
- Materials Science
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
Background:
- Drug delivery systems are crucial for managing challenges with diverse pharmaceuticals.
- Biodegradable polymers are favored for drug delivery due to biocompatibility and biodegradability.
- Microparticles are a common format for biodegradable polymer-based drug delivery, enabling controlled release.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review conventional and emerging microencapsulation technologies for drugs using biodegradable polymers.
- To present the characteristics and degradation behaviors of commonly used biodegradable polymers in drug delivery.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific databases for relevant studies on biodegradable polymers and microencapsulation.
- Analysis of factors influencing drug release rates from microparticles.
- Compilation of data on polymer properties and degradation.
Main Results:
- Biodegradable polymers offer tunable drug release profiles.
- Microparticle morphology, size, drug properties, and polymer degradation rate significantly impact release kinetics.
- Various microencapsulation techniques exist, with ongoing advancements.
Conclusions:
- Biodegradable polymer microparticles are effective for controlled drug delivery.
- Understanding polymer characteristics and microencapsulation methods is key to optimizing drug release.
- Further research into novel biodegradable polymers and advanced technologies will enhance drug delivery efficacy.
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