Controlled release of therapeutics using interpenetrating polymeric networks

Abstract

Introduction: The ever-increasing developments in pharmaceutical formulations have led to the widespread use of biodegradable polymers in various forms and configurations. In particular, interpenetrating network (IPN) and semi-IPN polymer structures that are capable of releasing drugs in a controlled manner have gained much wider importance in recent years.

Areas covered: Recently, IPNs and semi-IPNs have emerged as innovative materials of choice in controlled release (CR) of drugs as the release from these systems depends on pH of the media and temperature in addition to the nature of the system. These networks can be prepared as smart hydrogels following chemical or physical crosslinking methods to show remarkable drug release patterns compared to single polymer systems.

Expert opinion: A large number of IPNs and semi-IPNs have been reported in the literature. The present review is focused on the preparation methods and their CR properties with reference to anticancer, anti-asthmatic, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, anti-tuberculosis and antihypertensive drugs, as majority of these drugs have been reported to be the ideal choices for using IPNs and semi-IPNs.

Keywords:

• controlled release
• hydrogels
• interpenetrating networks
• microspheres
• semi-interpenetrating networks

Acknowledgments

TM Aminabhavi dedicates this review to Professor PV Kulkarni on the eve of his retirement from 40 years of continuous service and initiating this field of research some 30 years ago. The authors are indebted to S Rame Gowda, Research Institute of Science and Technology, Dharwad, India, for a partial support of this study as well as in creating the needed infrastructure. The authors also thank Shrikant A Tiwari for technical assistance.

Declaration of interest

This review was partially supported by S Rame Gowda, Research Institute of Science and Technology, Dharwad, India. The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.

Notes

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