Modified release of drug delivery systems: hydrophilic polymers

Abstract

Drug delivery systems (DDS) became an integral part of pharmaceutical research. The majority of oral DDS are matrix-based systems. Hydrophilic matrices for the past two decades have been popular in the formulation of controlled release solid dosage forms. Swellable matrices are monolithic systems prepared by compression of a powdered mixture of a hydrophilic polymer and a drug. They represent a delivery system in which various mechanisms can be adapted to the delivery program. Their success is linked to the established tabletting technology of manufacture. The choice of the hydrophilic polymer in the matrix formulation can provide an appropriate combination of swelling, dissolution or erosion mechanisms to evaluate in vitro release kinetics.