Hydrogel Matrix Diffusion Technology: Development of Controlled Release Formulation Aiming for Enhanced Adherence

Abstract

Hydrogels or hydrated matricesare water-based three-dimensional systems with numerous hydrophilic groups. The highly porous hydrogels swell on exposure to water in the gastrointestinal tract creating a mesh-like structure of the polymer cross-links, entrapping the drug particles inside that matrix. Subsequently, the embedded drug particles diffuse through the swollen gel-like layer creating a controlled impediment to drug release. The zones of the dissolved and un-dissolved drug are parted by two sides from the swollen gel region, namely the diffusion front and the erosion front. Drug release can occur by diffusion, erosion, or both. Thus, drug release is modulated by the hydrogel barrier enabling controlled release. This Hydrogel Matrix Diffusion Technology (HMDT) offers dimensional and temporal regulation of drug release patterns. Carbopol polymers also known as smart gels are usually used to manufacture stimuli-responsive (pH or temperature) hydrogels enabling their utilization across therapy areas. Given their several conformable parameters that permit the controlled
delivery of various therapeutic agents, hydrogels are exceptional contenders for oral drug delivery. HMDT can help improve adherence by reducing the dosing frequency/pill burden, thereby improving clinical outcomes. This is particularly critical for chronic diseases like diabetes, chronic stable angina, heart failure, hypertension, and several others. There is adequate clinical evidence for example the PROFICIENT study with Ivabradine showing similar clinical effectiveness with a once-daily regimen as multiple-dose regimenswith improved treatment compliance.