Controlling drug release from acrylic polymers: in vitro studies with potential oral inserts

The use of a drug modified polymer system which can release drugs such as hydrocortisone sodium succinate and chlorhexidine acetate has been explored. By partially coating the drug loaded acrylic, such that it acts as a core with an impermeable membrane covering most of the surface, the rapid releases of the drug can be prevented and near zero-order rates of release achieved. For chlorhexidine acetate the release time was extended from around 20 d to 80 d with at least 60% of the drug being released. A similar potential for the controlled release of hydrocortisone sodium succinate is described and represents an important stage in the development of an intra-oral insert for drug delivery.