In vitro evaluation of polymeric formulations designed for use in alveolar osteitis

In this article, we present a potential use of biodegradable polymers as a drug‐delivery system designed for alveolar osteitis (AO) management. The release characteristics of lidocaine hydrochloride from alginate or hyaluronate xerogels, which covered the microcrystalline chitosan scaffold, were examined as drug carriers, wound dressings, and potential devices in bone regeneration. The materials were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy to confirm that there was no additional covalent bonding between the polymeric membranes and the anesthetic agent. Surface‐eroding matrices (ca. 120 μm) encapsulated the main substance, and the morphologies of all of the structures were measured by scanning electron microscopy. Positive results were obtained, and the data suggested an important impact of materials selection on the physicochemical properties and drug release. Additionally, the mechanical properties, such as the hardness, adhesiveness, springiness, and cohesiveness, of the tested materials were evaluated. A study of the swelling confirmed one of the assumptions that the materials could be used as a potential wound dressing and emphasized the resistance of the materials in the condition imitating the movement of the masticatory system. A cytotoxicity test of the formulations was performed to prove the materials’ nontoxicity. The aim of this study was to design and propose an in vitro evaluation of a new drug formulation as a potential application for the treatment of AO. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016 , 133, 42991.