Synthesis and Characterization of Polymer-Based Membranes for Methotrexate Drug Delivery

Methotrexate or amethopterin or 4-amino-N10-methyl pteroylglutamic acid is used for treating autoimmune diseases, as well as certain malignancies. Drug delivery systems, which are based on biopolymers, can be developed to improve the therapeutic and pharmacological properties of topically administered drugs. Biopolymers improve the therapeutic effect of drugs, mainly by improving their biodistribution and modulating drug release. This study presents the synthesis of membranes based on anionic polysaccharides and cationic polysaccharides for transdermal delivery of the active ingredient methotrexate, as well as a compatibility study between methotrexate and each of the components used in the prepared membranes. The obtained membranes based on different marine polysaccharides, namely κ-carrageenan and chitosan, for the release of the active ingredient methotrexate were characterized using techniques such as TG, FTIR, UV-Vis spectrophotometry, FTIR microscopy, water absorption capacity, water vapor permeability, and biodegradation rate. Following the studies, the membranes suitable for the transdermal release of the active substance were validated.