Innovative Biodegradable Polymer Hydrogel Beads for Enhanced Controlled Drug Delivery: Formulation and Characterization

ABSTRACT: To address this, our research pioneers the development of Cefixime-loaded controlled-release hydrogel beads using biodegradable polymers, an innovative approach designed to optimize antibiotic delivery and combat resistance. This study's novelty lies in utilizing chitosan, a natural, biocompatible polymer, for sustained drug release in the gastric environment. The hydrogel beads were engineered through ionic gelation, with tripolyphosphate (TPP) acting as the crosslinking agent, allowing for a stable, controlled release formulation. Key analyses included FTIR spectroscopy for structural confirmation, drug entrapment efficiency (DEE) for measuring Cefixime retention, and in vitro release studies to assess the extended-release profile. This research contributes to the field of controlled drug delivery systems by offering a practical solution to prolong antibiotic efficacy, particularly in regions facing high rates of bacterial resistance. The application of such a system could revolutionize treatment strategies, minimizing resistance development while ensuring effective drug levels over extended periods. The entrapment efficiency of hydrogel beads with Cefixime trihydrate ranged from 92.17±0.92% to 61.82±0.45%. Among all formulations, F3 demonstrated sufficient drug release in vitro. Kinetic analysis revealed that all formulations had an n (release exponent) value greater than 1, indicating super Case II transport, in which the swelling and erosion of the polymer matrix controlled the drug release rate.