Drug release characteristics from chitosan-alginate matrix tablets based on the theory of self-assembled film

The aim of this study was to better understand the underlying drug release characteristics from chitosan-alginate matrix tablets containing different types of drugs. Theophylline, paracetamol, metformin hydrochloride and trimetazidine hydrochloride were used as model drugs exhibiting significantly different solubilities (12, 16, 346 and >1000 mg/ml at 37 °C in water). A novel concept raised was that drugs were released from chitosan-alginate matrix tablets based on the theory of a self-assembled film-controlled release system. The film was only formed on the surface of tablets in gastrointestinal environment and originated from chitosan-alginate polyelectrolyte complex, confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry characterization. The formed film could decrease the rate of polymer swelling to a degree, also greatly limit the erosion of tablets. Drugs were all released through diffusion in the hydrated matrix and polymer relaxation, irrespective of the drug solubility. The effects of polymer level and initial drug loading on release depended on drug properties. Drug release was influenced by the change of pH. In contrast, the impact of ionic strength of the release medium within the physiological range was negligible. Importantly, hydrodynamic conditions showed a key factor determining the superiority of the self-assembled film in controlling drug release compared with conventional matrix tablets. The new insight into chitosan-alginate matrix tablets can help to broaden the application of this type of dosage forms.