Composite poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) membranes as rate-controlling barriers for transdermal applications

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (pHEMA) is a versatile polymer with potential in biomedical applications.
• Developing effective transdermal drug delivery systems requires precise control over membrane permeability.
• Composite membranes offer tunable properties for controlled release applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize composite membranes based on cross-linked pHEMA for transdermal drug delivery.
• To investigate the influence of cross-linker content and polymer molecular weight on membrane swelling and permeation properties.
• To evaluate the potential of these membranes for controlled transdermal delivery of nitroglycerin.

Main Methods:

• Composite membranes were fabricated by casting linear pHEMA solutions onto non-woven polyester supports.
• The supported pHEMA was cross-linked using a diisocyanate agent to form a network structure.
• Swelling behavior in aqueous solutions and permeation rates of nitroglycerin and ethanol were measured.

Main Results:

• Increased cross-linker content reduced membrane swelling in water and aqueous ethanol.
• Higher original polymer molecular weight slightly increased swelling.
• Reduced cross-linker content, increased polymer molecular weight, and decreased membrane thickness enhanced nitroglycerin and ethanol permeation rates.
• Nitroglycerin permeation flux was tunable from 4 to 68 µg cm⁻² h⁻¹ based on preparation conditions.

Conclusions:

• Cross-linked pHEMA composite membranes can be effectively tailored for transdermal drug delivery applications.
• The study demonstrates a method to control drug permeation by adjusting membrane composition and structure.
• These findings highlight the potential of these membranes for controlled release of nitroglycerin and other therapeutic agents.