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Updated: Jun 22, 2026
Preparation and Characterization of Individual and Multi-drug Loaded Physically Entrapped Polymeric Micelles
Published on: August 28, 2015
In vitro characterization of methotrexate-loaded poly(lactic acid) microspheres of different molecular weights
1College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Karnataka, India.
Abstract:
Methotrexate-loaded poly (lactic acid) (PLA) microspheres were prepared from three different molecular weight PLAs using the emulsification-solvent evaporation method. The in vitro drug release could be controlled for up to 2 to 3 weeks. The release of the drug was dependent on the molecular weight of the polymer, the fastest release being from microspheres prepared with the lowest molecular weight PLA. This technique allows control of drug release with a single biodegradable homopolymer.
Insights
Biodegradable poly(lactic acid) microspheres offer controlled release of methotrexate for 2-3 weeks. Drug release rate depends on polymer molecular weight, with lower weights enabling faster release.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Biodegradable polymers are crucial for controlled drug delivery.
- Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is a widely used biodegradable polymer.
- Methotrexate is a chemotherapeutic agent requiring precise dosage control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prepare and characterize methotrexate-loaded poly(lactic acid) microspheres.
- To investigate the influence of PLA molecular weight on drug release kinetics.
- To demonstrate the potential of PLA microspheres for sustained methotrexate delivery.
Main Methods:
- Emulsification-solvent evaporation method was employed for microsphere preparation.
- Three different molecular weight grades of poly(lactic acid) were utilized.
- In vitro drug release studies were conducted over a 3-week period.
Main Results:
- Methotrexate-loaded PLA microspheres were successfully prepared.
- In vitro drug release was sustained for 2 to 3 weeks.
- Drug release rate was inversely proportional to PLA molecular weight; lower molecular weight PLA resulted in faster release.
Conclusions:
- Poly(lactic acid) microspheres provide a viable system for controlled methotrexate delivery.
- PLA molecular weight is a critical factor in modulating drug release profiles.
- This approach offers a method for achieving tunable drug release using a single biodegradable polymer.
