3D Printable Self-Healing Mineralized Hydrogels Loaded With Diclofenac Sodium: In Vitro and In Vivo Assessment

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Pharmaceutical Technology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Self-healing mineralized hydrogels offer advanced properties for 3D printing applications.
• 3D printing of oral films presents opportunities for customized drug delivery systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and optimize 3D-printed oral films using self-healing mineralized hydrogels for diclofenac sodium delivery.
• To investigate the impact of print speed and drug loading on printing accuracy, physical characteristics, and drug release.

Main Methods:

• Semi-solid extrusion-based 3D printing was employed to fabricate diclofenac sodium-loaded oral films.
• Print speed optimization was performed using blank hydrogels, analyzing printing accuracy and pore area.
• Drug loading effects on hydrogel viscosity and pore structure were evaluated.
• In vitro drug release and in vivo bioavailability studies were conducted.

Main Results:

• An optimal print speed of 2 mm/sec yielded 98.13% printing accuracy and a 41.31% pore area.
• Hydrogel viscosity increased significantly with diclofenac sodium addition.
• Increased drug loading (up to 3% w/w) reduced pore area to 11.48%.
• 3% w/w diclofenac sodium-loaded films printed at 2 mm/sec showed faster in vitro release and considerable in vivo bioavailability.

Conclusions:

• Self-healing mineralized hydrogels are suitable for high-accuracy 3D printing of drug-loaded oral films.
• Optimized printing parameters ensure consistent drug release and enhanced bioavailability.
• This technology holds potential for developing advanced, patient-specific drug delivery systems.