Preparation and characterization of controlled release matrices based on novel seaweed interpolyelectrolyte complexes

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background:

• Naturally sulfated polysaccharides from Polysiphonia nigrescens (PN) are potential biomaterials.
• Cationized agaroses (CAG) and Eudragit E (EE) are suitable cationic polymers for complex formation.
• Developing novel drug delivery systems with tunable release is crucial for effective therapeutics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare and characterize novel interpolyelectrolyte complexes (IPECs) using PN and CAG/EE.
• To investigate the potential of these IPECs for controlled drug release applications.
• To explore methods for modulating drug release profiles by altering IPEC composition and properties.

Main Methods:

• Organic solvent-free preparation of IPECs.
• Characterization of IPECs and ibuprofen-loaded tablets.
• Direct compression of tablets containing ibuprofen and IPECs.
• In vitro drug release studies in acidic and buffer media (pH 6.8).
• Analysis of drug release kinetics (Fickian diffusion, relaxation).

Main Results:

• IPECs were successfully prepared without organic solvents.
• Tablets exhibited low ibuprofen release in acidic medium due to low solubility and matrix effects.
• Zero-order drug release was observed in buffer (pH 6.8), with diffusion and relaxation mechanisms identified.
• Drug release rates were effectively controlled by varying IPEC content in tablets.
• Modifications in molecular weight and degree of substitution influenced release profiles.

Conclusions:

• Novel IPECs based on PN, CAG, and EE are promising for controlled drug delivery.
• The developed IPEC systems allow for tunable ibuprofen release kinetics.
• The study demonstrates the feasibility of using natural polysaccharides in advanced drug delivery formulations.