Formulation strategies to modulate drug release from poloxamer based in situ gelling systems

Introduction: Poloxamer based in situ gelling systems offer numerous advantages in drug delivery; however, their application as prolonged-release delivery platforms is limited mainly due to their weak mechanical properties and the interconnected aqueous network causing fast gel erosion and drug diffusion.Area covered: The focus of this review is to provide an insightful discussion on the formulation strategies that can be employed to sustain/prolong the drug release from poloxamer based in situ gelling systems. The review also outlines the formulation factors, influencing drug release from these systems.Expert opinion: The nature, composition, and concentration of poloxamers are the most critical factors in defining the rate of drug release from an in situ gelling matrix. Hydrophobic gel matrices have compact micellar arrangements resulting in slow diffusion and erosion. Depending on the intended clinical application, gel characteristics can be modulated, either by physical blending or by chemical crosslinking with additive materials, to slow release and improve residence time at the administration site. Incorporating drug-loaded particles into poloxamer gels sustains drug release by creating multiple rate-limiting release barriers. Chemical modification of poloxamers appears to be a promising strategy to obtain prolonged sustained release for parenteral application without compromising the rheological properties of the formulation.