Effect of different cross-linking methods and processing parameters on drug release from hydrogel beads

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Materials Science

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases require effective drug delivery systems for sustained therapeutic effects.
• Developing hydrogel beads with optimized drug entrapment and release profiles is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and compare different cross-linking methods for diltiazem-resin complex loaded carboxymethyl xanthan gum (CMXG) hydrogel beads.
• To achieve high drug entrapment efficiency and extended drug release for cardio-protection.

Main Methods:

• Hydrogel beads were prepared using ionic cross-linking and dual cross-linking (simultaneous and sequential methods).
• Carboxymethyl xanthan gum (CMXG) was used as the matrix material.
• Diltiazem-resin complex was loaded into the hydrogel beads.

Main Results:

• The sequential (SEQ) cross-linking method yielded smaller beads with superior drug entrapment efficacy and prolonged release characteristics.
• Increased covalent cross-linker concentration and cross-linking time reduced drug release.
• The drug remained stable within the beads under stress conditions for up to 3 months.

Conclusions:

• The sequential cross-linking method is superior for developing CMXG hydrogel beads for prolonged release of diltiazem.
• These hydrogel beads show promise as a drug delivery device for managing cardiovascular diseases.