Core–Shell Hydrogel for Sequential Release of Antiemetics and Chemotherapy Drugs

ABSTRACT To alleviate chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting (CINV), antiemetics are usually given before the administration of chemotherapy drugs. However, the poor compliance of patients in administering antiemetics and chemotherapy drugs separately hinders the smooth progress of chemotherapy. Here, a core–shell hydrogel as a two‐in‐one delivery carrier is proposed for the sequential release of antiemetics and chemotherapy drugs. The hydrogel consists of a sodium alginate‐based shell loaded with antiemetics and a gelatin‐based core loaded with chemotherapy drugs. The design of the core–shell structure enables rapid release of antiemetics driven by the high concentration gradient between the hydrogel and the release medium, and the sustained release of chemotherapy drugs due to the low concentration gradient and the extended drug release pathway. As a result, the core–shell hydrogel can release 90% of the antiemetic within the initial 2 h, and sustainably release the chemotherapy drug for 12 h, demonstrating potential for treating CINV.