Controlled release multiple layer coatings

Purpose: In a fluid-bed coating machine, the coating solutions are normally sprayed using a manually controlled peristaltic pump. This study provides a process where two or more coating solutions can be sprayed consecutively using two or more syringe pumps controlled by a computer, to form multiple layers. In this process, the spraying parameters can be controlled easily from a computer. Methods: Propranolol HCl was used as a model drug. Nine different drug-loaded controlled release coated beads were prepared by using a combination of ethylcellulose and/or chitosan solutions. The pulse-coated beads were prepared by changing the spray rate and/or volume of the polymer solutions. Results: There was a fourfold increase (18 versus 75 minutes) in lag time when the same amount of ethylcellulose (4 g) was dissolved in 100 mL of ethanol instead of 160 mL. When the same amount of drug and ethylcellulose solution was applied on the acrylic coated beads as multiple layers coating, the lag time decreased to only 6 minutes. Similarly, the 50% drug release time also decreased significantly. Conclusion: An overall comparison of the dissolution profiles showed that drug release from these coated beads was changed significantly when the sequence of the drug and polymer layers was changed.     

Preparation and Dissolution Characteristics of Prolonged Release Mebeverine-HCL Beads

Different batches of slow release mebeverine-HCl beads were prepared by pan coating technique using different release retarding polymers viz Eudragit RL₁₀₀, Eudragit RS₁₀₀ and Ethyl cellulose. The thickness of the coats was controlled by changing the amounts of the added polymers. Pre- and overcoating of the beads with bees wax was also carried out. Mixtures of pre-waxed Eudragit RS₁₀₀ coated and uncoated beads in different ratios were prepared to control both drug content and release.

Dissolution profiles of mebeverine HCl from the prepared beads were investigated using USP XX rotating basket method. Prolonged release of mebeverine-HCl was obtained from different batches of the coated beads with the advantage of no initial dumping of the water soluble drug. The release of mebeverine-HCl from the beads coated with acrylic resins and ethyl cellulose as well as waxed acrylic resins coated beads was diffusion controlled according to Higuchi model. Beads coated with ethyl cellulose showed a different release pattern when pre-or overcoated with wax. By altering the ratios of prewaxed Eudragit Rs₁₀₀ coated and uncoated beads in formulated mixtures, it was possible to control both mebeverine-HCl content and release rate.     

A study towards release dynamics of thiram fungicide from starch-alginate beads to control environmental and health hazards

In order to make the judicious use of thiram fungicide we have developed starch- and alginate-based controlled and sustained agrochemical delivery system in the form of beads using calcium chloride (CaCl2) as crosslinker. The beads were characterized by FTIR and swelling studies. To study the effect of composition of the beads on the release dynamics of fungicide (thiram), beads were prepared by varying the amount of starch, alginate and crosslinker in the beads. Formulation characteristics like entrapment efficiency, bead size, percentage equilibrium swelling of the beads and diffusion mechanism for thiram release have been evaluated. Maximum (93.33+/-2.89)% swelling and maximum (80.67+/-0.83)% thiram release has occurred in the beads prepared with 15% starch, 1% alginate and 0.1M crosslinker solution. In most of the formulations the entrapment efficacy of thiram has been observed more than 90% and the values for the diffusion exponent 'n' have been obtained >1 which shows that the release of fungicides occurred through Case II diffusion mechanism.     

Preparation and Dissolution Characteristics of Prolonged Release Mebeverine-HCL Beads

Different batches of slow release mebeverine-HCl beads were prepared by pan coating technique using different release retarding polymers viz Eudragit RL₁₀₀, Eudragit RS₁₀₀ and Ethyl cellulose. The thickness of the coats was controlled by changing the amounts of the added polymers. Pre- and overcoating of the beads with bees wax was also carried out. Mixtures of pre-waxed Eudragit RS₁₀₀ coated and uncoated beads in different ratios were prepared to control both drug content and release.

Dissolution profiles of mebeverine HCl from the prepared beads were investigated using USP XX rotating basket method. Prolonged release of mebeverine-HCl was obtained from different batches of the coated beads with the advantage of no initial dumping of the water soluble drug. The release of mebeverine-HCl from the beads coated with acrylic resins and ethyl cellulose as well as waxed acrylic resins coated beads was diffusion controlled according to Higuchi model. Beads coated with ethyl cellulose showed a different release pattern when pre-or overcoated with wax. By altering the ratios of prewaxed Eudragit Rs₁₀₀ coated and uncoated beads in formulated mixtures, it was possible to control both mebeverine-HCl content and release rate.     

Dissolution Controlled Drug Release from Agarose Beads

Abstract

A simple method was used for loading ibuprofen or indomethacin into agarose beads to obtain sustained release. Placebo beads were prepared by a dropwise addition of a hot aqueous agarose solution into a beaker of chilled mineral oil and water. Prior to loading, the aqueous component in the beads was replaced by repeated soakings in ethanol. Loading was accomplished at room temperature using ethanolic drug solutions. Upon drying, the beads shrank to about a third of their original size. The surface morphology of dried placebo and loaded beads was studied using electron microscopy. The release time at 37° C and pH 7.5 increased with drug loading and at 50% loading the release time was 4 hours for indomethacin and 6 hours for ibuprofen. Release of chlorpheniramine from dried and swollen beads was examined to elucidate the release mechanism. From dissolution studies it was concluded that the delay due to swelling is less than 10 minutes, chlorpheniramine release from swollen beads was primarily diffusion controlled, and the release mechanism for indomethacin and ibuprofen has three components: i) swelling of the beads, ii) dissolution of crystallized drug, and iii) diffusion of dissolved drug from the beads.     

Wet Process-Induced Phase-Transited Drug Delivery System: A Means for Achieving Osmotic,Controlled, and Level A IVIVC for Poorly Water-Soluble Drug

A phase-transited, nondisintegrating, controlled release, asymmetric membrane capsular system for poorly water-soluble model drug flurbiprofen was developed and evaluated both in vitro and in vivo for osmotic and controlled release of the drug. Asymmetric membrane capsules (AMCs) were prepared using fabricated glass mold pins through wet phase inversion process. Effect of varying osmotic pressure of the dissolution medium on drug release was studied. Membrane characterization by scanning electron microscopy showed an outer dense region with less pores and an inner porous region for the prepared asymmetric membrane. In vitro release studies for all the prepared formulations were carried out (n = 6). Statistical test was applied for in vitro drug release at p > .05. Predicted in vivo concentration from in vitro release data closely matched the minimum effective concentration (in vivo) level achieved by the drug from its release through phase-transited AMC in rabbits for the first hour. The drug release was found to be independent of the pH but dependent on the osmotic pressure of the dissolution medium. In vivo pharmacokinetic studies showed level A correlation (R² > .99) with 42.84% relative bioavailability compared to immediate release tablet of flurbiprofen. Excellent correlation achieved suggested that the in vivo performance of the AMCs could be accurately predicted from their in vitro release profile.     

Taste masking of azithromycin by resin complex and sustained release through interpenetrating polymer network with functionalized biopolymers

Abstract

Objective: The objective was to evaluate taste masking of azithromycin (AZI) by ion exchange resins (IERs) and the formation of covalent semi interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) beads using chitosan (CS) and sodium carboxylated agarose (SCAG) for sustained release of drug.

Methods: Methacrylic acid (MAA)-based IERs were prepared by suspension polymerization method. Drug release complexes (DRCs) were prepared by different drug:resin ratios i.e. 1:1, 1:2 and 1:4. The resultant DRCs were characterized using DSC, FTIR, PXRD, in vivo and in vitro taste masking, and in vitro drug release at gastric pH. IPN beads were prepared by entrapping DRCs with bio polymers and cross linked with trisodium citrate (NaCIT), and further cross-linked with glutaraldehyde (GA) for sustained release of AZI.

Results: In vitro and in vivo taste masking studies showed that MD1:4 DRC formulation was optimal. The release of AZI from DRC was found to be very fast at gastric pH i.e. 97.37?±?1.02% within 45?min. The formation of IPN beads was confirmed by FTIR. The release of drug from IPN beads at gastric and intestinal pH was found to be “<28% and <60%”, respectively. The release kinetics showed Fickian diffusion profile for ionically cross-linked beads and zero-order release mechanism for GA cross-linking beads.

Conclusions: DRCs can be effectively used for taste masking and newly formulated IPN beads demonstrated sustained release of AZI.     

Development of Extended Release Dosage Forms Using Non-Uniform Drug Distribution Techniques

ABSTRACT

Development of an extended release oral dosage form for nifedipine using the non-uniform drug distribution matrix method was conducted. The process conducted in a fluid bed processing unit was optimized by controlling the concentration gradient of nifedipine in the coating solution and the spray rate applied to the non-pareil beads. The concentration of nifedipine in the coating was controlled by instantaneous dilutions of coating solution with polymer dispersion transported from another reservoir into the coating solution at a controlled rate. The USP dissolution method equipped with paddles at 100 rpm in 0.1 N hydrochloric acid solution maintained at 37°C was used for the evaluation of release rate characteristics. Results indicated that (1) an increase in the ethyl cellulose content in the coated beads decreased the nifedipine release rate, (2) incorporation of water-soluble sucrose into the formulation increased the release rate of nifedipine, and (3) adjustment of the spray coating solution and the transport rate of polymer dispersion could achieve a dosage form with a zero-order release rate. Since zero-order release rate and constant plasma concentration were achieved in this study using the non-uniform drug distribution technique, further studies to determine in vivo/in vitro correlation with various non-uniform drug distribution dosage forms will be conducted.     

Development of extended release dosage forms using non-uniform drug distribution techniques

Development of an extended release oral dosage form for nifedipine using the non-uniform drug distribution matrix method was conducted. The process conducted in a fluid bed processing unit was optimized by controlling the concentration gradient of nifedipine in the coating solution and the spray rate applied to the non-pareil beads. The concentration of nifedipine in the coating was controlled by instantaneous dilutions of coating solution with polymer dispersion transported from another reservoir into the coating solution at a controlled rate. The USP dissolution method equipped with paddles at 100 rpm in 0.1 N hydrochloric acid solution maintained at 37°C was used for the evaluation of release rate characteristics. Results indicated that (1) an increase in the ethyl cellulose content in the coated beads decreased the nifedipine release rate, (2) incorporation of water-soluble sucrose into the formulation increased the release rate of nifedipine, and (3) adjustment of the spray coating solution and the transport rate of polymer dispersion could achieve a dosage form with a zero-order release rate. Since zero-order release rate and constant plasma concentration were achieved in this study using the non-uniform drug distribution technique, further studies to determine in vivo/in vitro correlation with various non-uniform drug distribution dosage forms will be conducted.     

Preparation of Codeine-Resinate and Chlorpheniramine-Resinate Sustained-Release Suspension and its Pharmacokinetic Evaluation in Beagle Dogs

ABSTRACT

Using ion exchange resins (IERs) as carriers, a dual-drug sustained release suspension containing codeine, and chlorpheniramine had been prepared to elevate drug safety, effectiveness and conformance. The codeine resinate and chlorpheniramine resinate beads were prepared by a batch process and then impregnated with Polyethylene glycol 4000 (PEG 4000), respectively. The PEG impregnated drug resinate beads were coated with ethylcellulose as the coating polymer and di-n-butyl-phthalate as plasticizer in ethanol and methylene chloride mixture by the Wurster process. The coated PEG impregnated drug resinate beads were dispersed in an aqueous suspending vehicle containing 0.5% w/w xanthan gum and 0.5% w/w of hydroxypropylmethylcellulose of nominal viscosity of 4000 cps, obtaining codeine resinate and chlorpheniramine resinate sustained-release suspension (CCSS).

Codeine phosphate and chlorpheniramine maleate were respectively loaded onto AMBERLITE® IRP 69, and PEG 4000 was used to impregnate drug resinate beads to maintain their geometry. Ethylcellulose with di-n-butyl-phthalate in ethanol and methylene chloride mixture for the coating of drug resinate beads was performed in Glatt fluidized bed coater, where the coating solution flow rate was 8–12 g/min, the inlet air temperature was 50–60°C, the outlet air temperature was 32–38°C, the atomizing air pressure was 2.0 bar and the fluidized air pressure was adjusted as required. Few significant agglomeratation of circulating drug resinate beads was observed during the operation. The film weight gained 20% w/w and 15% w/w were suitable for the PEG impregnated codeine resinate and chlorpheniramine resinate beads, respectively. Residual solvent content increased with coating level, but inprocess drying could reduce residual solvent content.

In the present study, the rates of drug release from both drug resinate beads were measured in 0.05M and 0.5M KCl solutions. The increased ionic strength generally accelerated the release rate of both drugs. But the release of codeine from its resinate beads was much more rapid than chloropheneramine released from its resinate beads in the same ionic strength release medium. The drug release specification of the CCSS, where release mediums were 0.05M KCl solution for codeine and 0.5M KCl solution for chlorpheniramine, was established to be in conformance with in vivo performance.

Relative bioavailability and pharmacokinetics evaluation of the CCSS, using commercial immediate-release tablets as the reference preparation, were performed following a randomized two-way crossover design in beagle dogs. The drug concentrations in plasma were measured by a validated LC-MS/MS method to determine the pharmacokinetic parameters of CCSS. This LC-MS/MS method demonstrated high accuracy and precision for bioanalysis, and was proved quick and reliable for the pharmacokinetic studies. The results showed that the CCSS had the longer value of T_max and the lower value of C_max, which meant an obviously sustained release effect, and its relative bioavailability of codeine and chlorpheniramine were (103.6 ± 14.6)% and (98.1 ± 10.3)%, respectively, compared with the reference preparation. These findings indicated that a novel liquid sustained release suspension made by using IERs as carriers and subsequent fluidized bed coating might provide a constant plasma level of the active pharmaceutical ingredient being highly beneficial for various therapeutic reasons.     

Controlled Release Capsule of Tetracycline Hydrochloride

Controlled release capsules of tetracycline hydrochloride were prepared by coating of beads with eudragits employing spray technique. Effect of various factors influencing drug release from beads was evaluated. In vitro dissolution study was carried out following the N.F.XIV procedure of testing “Timed Release Tablets and Capsules In Vitro Test Procedure” using USP XX dissolution apparatus. Promising products were evaluated in vivo on human volunteers. Selected products were also subjected to stability studies.     

Feasibility of xanthan gum–sodium alginate as a transdermal drug delivery system for domperidone

The present investigation comprises the formulation and in vitro evaluation of domperidone loaded transdermal drug delivery system (TDDS) for controlled release. The polymer membranes were prepared using xanthan gum (XG) and sodium alginate (SA) by varying the blends compositions viz., 10:0, 8:2, 6:4, 5:5, 4:6, 2:8, and 0:10 (XG/SA, wt/wt, %). The drug loaded membranes were evaluated for thickness, content uniformity, tensile behaviours, and in vitro drug release studies. Domperidone was found to be compatible with the prepared formulation as revealed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy studies. In vitro release studies were carried out in open glass diffusion cell for a period of 8 h and it showed controlled release of drug from the XG/SA matrix. The present study concludes that, the prepared transdermal films can be used to achieve controlled release of drug and improved bioavailability.     

Preparation and in Vitro evaluation of mefenamic Acid Sustained Release Beads

Abstract

Sustained release beads of mefenamic acid were prepared by a capillary method using cellulose acetate phthalate, surfactants (Tween 80 and Span 80), and polymers (K 100 M Methocel and K 100 LV Methocel). These beads were then formulated into capsule dosage form. The beads did not disintegrate in simulated gastric fluid; however, they disintegrated in simulated intestinal fluid. The dissolution profiles of mefenamic acid beads and capsule dosage form were conducted in phosphate buffer (pH 7.2) at 37° C. The beads containing Span 80 and a mixture of K 100 M and A 4 M Methocel resulted in prolonged drug release. The formulations prepared with Tween 80 and K 100 LV Methocel released over 90% of the drug in 2 hours indicating no sustained release properties. The beads in capsule dosage form yielded slower dissolution profiles compared to the beads alone. Aging for six months had no effect on dissolution of mefenamic acid beads. The release of mefenamic acid seems to be combination of diffusion and leaching. The release of mefenamic acid from beads can be modified by varying the polymer composition and their concentration.     

Preparation and dissolution characteristics of indomethacin sustained release beads

Abstract

Indomethacin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agent and has a short half life, and causes gastric irritation. Sustained release beads of indomethacin were prepared and dissolution profiles were investigated. Beads were prepared by allowing drops of a suspension of the drug and excipients in a solution of cellulose acetate phthalate to drop into an acetic acid solution by means of a peristaltic pump. In a previous study¹, sulfadiazine was used as a model drug to prepare beads by a similar method and the effects of various viscosity agents on the properties of these beads were assessed. Glycerin, polymers (Methocel and Avicel), and surfactants (Tween 80 and Span 80) were used as excipients. The incorporation of various viscosity agents and polymers into the suspension yielded beads with different disintegration and dissolution values. A high performance liquid chromatography method showed no indication of drug degradation during the preparation. The dissolution studies of the indomethacin preparations demonstrated differences in drug release properties depending on composition and method of preparation. The preparation with equal quantities of the two surfactants (Tween 80 and Span 80) released the drug at the slowest rate.     

Formulation and Characterization of a Compacted Multiparticulate System for Modified Release of Water-Soluble Drugs – Part 1 Acetaminophen

The aim of this study was to characterize and evaluate a modified release, multiparticulate tablet formulation consisting of placebo beads and drug-loaded beads. Acetaminophen (APAP) bead formulations containing ethylcellulose (EC) from 40–60% and placebo beads containing 30% calcium silicate and prepared using 0–20% alcohol were developed using extrusion–spheronization and studied using a central composite experimental design. Particle size and true density of beads were measured. Segregation testing was performed using the novel ASTM D6940-04 method on a 50:50 blend of uncoated APAP beads (60%EC) : calcium silicate placebo beads (10% alcohol). Tablets were prepared using an instrumented Stokes-B2 rotary tablet press and evaluated for crushing strength and dissolution rate. Compared with drug beads (60%EC), placebo beads (10% alcohol) were smaller but had higher true densities: 864.8 μm and 1.27 g/cm³, and 787.1 μm and 1.73 g/cm³, respectively. Segregation testing revealed that there was approximately a 20% difference in drug content (as measured by the coefficient of variation) between initial and final blend samples. Although calcium silicate-based placebo beads were shown to be ineffective cushioning agents in blends with Surelease^®-coated APAP beads, they were found to be very compactibile when used alone and gave tablet crushing strength values between 14 and 17 kP. The EC in the APAP bead matrix minimally suppressed the drug release from uncoated beads (t_100%?=?2 h). However, while tablets containing placebo beads reformulated with glycerol monostearate (GMS) showed a slower release rate (t_60%= 5 h) compared with calcium silicate-based placebos, some coating damage (～30%) still occurred on compression as release was faster than coated APAP beads alone. While tablets containing coated drug beads can be produced with practical crushing strengths (>8 kP) and low compression pressures (10–35 MPa), dissolution studies revealed that calcium silicate-based placebos are ineffective as cushioning agents. Blend segregation was likely observed due to the particle size and the density differences between APAP beads and calcium silicate-based placebo beads; placebo bead percolation can perhaps be minimized by increasing their size during the extrusion–spheronization process. The GMS- based placebos offer greater promise as cushioning agents for compacted, coated drug beads; however, this requires an optimized compression pressure range and drug bead : placebo bead ratio (i.e., 50:50).     

Evaluation of pH-Sensitivity and Drug Release Characteristics of (Polyacrylamide-Grafted-Xanthan)–Carboxymethyl Cellulose-Based pH-Sensitive Interpenetrating Network Hydrogel Beads

Novel pH-sensitive interpenetrating network hydrogel beads of polyacrylamide-grafted-xanthan (PAAm-g-XG) and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (NaCMC) loaded with ketoprofen were prepared and evaluated for pH sensitivity and drug release characteristics. The pH-sensitive PAAm-g-XG copolymer was synthesized by free radical polymerization under the nitrogen atmosphere followed by alkaline hydrolysis. The grafting and alkaline hydrolysis reactions were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction studies were carried out to know the crystalline nature of encapsulated drug. Scanning electron microscopic study revealed that the interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) beads possess porous matrix structure in alkaline pH whereas nonporous matrix structure was observed in acidic pH. The swelling of the beads and drug release was significantly increased when pH of the medium was changed from acidic to alkaline. The results of pulsatile swelling study indicated that the IPN beads changed their swelling behavior when pH of the external medium was altered. As pH of the medium was changed from 1.2 to 7.4, a considerable increase in swelling was observed for all the beads. However, swelling process was slower than the deswelling. At higher pH values, the carboxyl functional groups of hydrogels undergo ionization and the osmotic pressure inside the beads increases resulting in higher swelling. Drug release followed case II transport mechanism in acidic medium whereas anomalous/non-Fickian transport mechanism was observed in alkaline medium.     

Organic-aqueous crossover coating process for the desmopressin orally disintegrating microparticles

The purpose of the present study was to prepare desmopressin orally disintegrating microparticles (ODMs) using organic-aqueous crossover coating process which featured an organic sub-coating followed by an aqueous active coating. Sucrose beads and hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) were used as inert cores and a coating material, respectively. Characterizations including size distribution analysis, in-vitro release studies and in-vitro disintegration studies were performed. A pharmacokinetic study of the ODMs was also conducted in eight beagle dogs. It was found that sucrose beads should be coated using organic solvents to preserve their original morphology. For the active coating, the aqueous coating solution should be used for drug stability. When sucrose beads were coated using organic-aqueous crossover coating process, double-layer ODMs with round shapes were produced with detectable impurities below limit of US Pharmacopeia. The median size of ODMs was 195.6?μm, which was considered small enough for a good mouthfeel. The ODMs dissolved in artificial saliva within 15?s because of hydrophilic materials including sucrose and HPC in the ODMs. Because of its fast-dissolving properties, 100% release of the drug was reached within 5?min. Pharmacokinetic parameters including C_max and AUC₂₄ indicated bioequivalence of the ODMs and the conventional immediate release tablets. Therefore, by using the organic-aqueous crossover coating process, double-layer ODMs were successively prepared with small size, round shapes and good drug stability.     

Wet process-induced phase-transited drug delivery system: a means for achieving osmotic, controlled, and level A IVIVC for poorly water-soluble drug

A phase-transited, nondisintegrating, controlled release, asymmetric membrane capsular system for poorly water-soluble model drug flurbiprofen was developed and evaluated both in vitro and in vivo for osmotic and controlled release of the drug. Asymmetric membrane capsules (AMCs) were prepared using fabricated glass mold pins through wet phase inversion process. Effect of varying osmotic pressure of the dissolution medium on drug release was studied. Membrane characterization by scanning electron microscopy showed an outer dense region with less pores and an inner porous region for the prepared asymmetric membrane. In vitro release studies for all the prepared formulations were carried out (n = 6). Statistical test was applied for in vitro drug release at p > .05. Predicted in vivo concentration from in vitro release data closely matched the minimum effective concentration (in vivo) level achieved by the drug from its release through phase-transited AMC in rabbits for the first hour. The drug release was found to be independent of the pH but dependent on the osmotic pressure of the dissolution medium. In vivo pharmacokinetic studies showed level A correlation (R(2) > .99) with 42.84% relative bioavailability compared to immediate release tablet of flurbiprofen. Excellent correlation achieved suggested that the in vivo performance of the AMCs could be accurately predicted from their in vitro release profile.     

Effects of Microwave on Drug Release Property of Poly(Methyl Vinyl Ether-co-Maleic Acid) Matrix

ABSTRACT

The drug release behavior of beads made of poly(methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic acid) was investigated with respect to the influence of microwave irradiation. The beads were prepared by an extrusion method with sodium diclofenac as a model water-soluble drug. The beads were subjected to microwave irradiation at 80 W for 5 and 20 min, and at 300 W for 1 min 20 s and 5 min 20 s. The profiles of drug dissolution, drug content, drug-polymer interaction, and polymer-polymer interaction were determined by using dissolution testing, drug content assay, differential scanning calorimetry, and Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy. Keeping the level of supplied irradiation energy identical, treatment of beads by microwave at varying intensities of irradiation did not bring about similar drug release profiles. The extent and rate of drug released from beads were markedly enhanced through treating the samples by microwave at 80 W as a result of loss of polymer-polymer interaction via the (CH₂)_n moiety, but decreased upon treating the beads by microwave at 300 W following polymer-polymer interaction via the O-H, COOH, and COO^? moieties as well as drug-polymer interaction via the N-H, O-H, COO^?, and C-O moieties. The beads treated by microwave at 300 W exhibited a higher level of drug release retardation capacity than those that were treated by microwave at 80 W in spite of polymer-polymer interaction via the (CH₂)_n moiety was similarly reduced in the matrix. The mechanism of drug release of both microwave-treated and untreated beads tended to follow zero order kinetics. The drug release was markedly governed by the state of polymer relaxation of the matrix and was in turn affected by the state of polymer-polymer and/or drug-polymer interaction in beads.     

Investigation on sulphonated PEEK beads for drug delivery,bioactivity and tissue engineering applications

Poly ether ether ketone (PEEK) has wide applications in the field of medicine as a prosthetic material and can be sulphonated using sulphuric acid. This study focuses on the fabrication of water soluble SPEEK beads using infusion pump and the obtained beads were characterised using Fourier Transform Infra Red (FTIR) spectroscopy to confirm the sulphonation, while their surface morphology was studied using scanning electron microscope (SEM). In order to study the bioactivity of the prepared beads, hydroxyapatite was dispersed within them followed by their immersion in SBF. In order to study the drug release kinetics of the beads, they were loaded with amoxicillin in different concentrations. Cytotoxicity studies were performed by MTT method and ALP activity was measured using mouse osteoblast cells (MC3T3-E1). The SEM and FTIR of the prepared beads confirmed the morphology and the sulphonation of the prepared beads. Also, the apatite formation on the SPEEK beads, subsequent to their immersion in SBF, proved that the beads possessed excellent bioactivity. Moreover, the beads developed exhibited low cytotoxicity, implying good biocompatibility and safety. Thus, the results of the study indicated that the novel SPEEK beads could potentially be used as a drug carrying vehicle with low toxicity.