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Formulation and Analytical Characterization of Phenprocoumon-Loaded κ-Carrageenan Hydrogels for Controlled-Release
Iulia Gallo1,2, Camelia Epuran1, Ion Fratilescu1
1Research Centre for Thermal Analysis in Environmental Problems/ICAM-Advanced Environmental Research Institute, West University of Timisoara, Oituz Street 4, 300233 Timisoara, Romania.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)
|July 28, 2026
Summary
Novel hydrogels using carrageenan and potassium ions offer controlled release of phenprocoumon (PHP), an anticoagulant. This system prevents dose dumping and reduces bleeding risks for safer oral drug delivery.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- Oral anticoagulants like phenprocoumon (PHP) require precise dosing due to their narrow therapeutic index.
- Uncontrolled release can lead to dangerous dose dumping and hemorrhagic complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize novel κ-carrageenan hydrogels for sustained oral delivery of phenprocoumon (PHP).
- To investigate the role of potassium ions (K+) in stabilizing the hydrogel matrix and controlling drug release kinetics.
Main Methods:
- Preparation and characterization of κ-carrageenan hydrogels loaded with phenprocoumon (PHP).
- Analysis using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and thermogravimetric/derivative thermogravimetric (TG/DTG) analysis.
- In vitro drug release studies and kinetic modeling using the Korsmeyer-Peppas equation.
- Development and validation of a reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) assay.
Main Results:
- FT-IR and thermal analyses confirmed physical encapsulation of PHP within the carrageenan matrix without chemical interactions.
- Potassium ions (K+) enhanced the thermal stability and structural integrity of the polymer network.
- Kinetic analysis indicated a relaxation-dominated, diffusion-controlled release mechanism for PHP from K+-stabilized hydrogels.
- Ionic cross-linking via K+ effectively mitigated the initial burst release of phenprocoumon.
Conclusions:
- κ-carrageenan hydrogels stabilized with potassium ions are effective for the controlled and sustained oral delivery of phenprocoumon (PHP).
- The developed hydrogel systems demonstrate potential for improving the safety and efficacy of phenprocoumon therapy by preventing dose dumping.
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