Novel Biodegradable Blend Matrices for Controlled Drug Release

Phosphorylcholine-functionalized poly-ε-caprolactone (PC-PCL) is a new biodegradable polymer with good biocompatibility. In this study modulation of the controlled release of Ibuprofen (IB), a model drug, from poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) by direct blending with PC-PCL is investigated. The influence of several factors such as the content of PC-PCL in the blend, drug loading and the molecular weight of PCL matrix upon the IB release is recognized. The release mechanism is discussed in terms of degradation/erosion profiles and hydrophilicity of the blend matrices. The IB release rate increased with the PC-PCL content because PC-PCL increased the hydrophilicity and biodegradability of the blends. Simultaneously, that release rate decreased with increase in the molecular weight of PCL in the blend. The drug loading in the blend also affected the release property of the matrix. Analysis of the release profiles following the power law indicated that the IB release was governed mainly by diffusion kinetics. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association J Pharm Sci 97:4240-4248, 2008