An acrylic reline resin loaded with chlorhexidine: Insights on drug release

Abstract

ObjectivesDental-biomaterials loaded with drugs are a promising strategy for local infection treatment. In this context, some studies suggest the incorporation of chlorhexidine (CHX), as an antifungal drug, in acrylic reline resins for the treatment of Candida albicans associated dental infections. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the release of CHX from one acrylic reline resin, Kooliner (K). Furthermore, the effect of different media conditions and the drug loading on the CHX release was assessed. MethodsResin specimens were prepared from a hard denture reline material based on poly(ethylmethacrylate) (PEMA) and isobutylmethacrylate (IBMA) containing 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10wt% of CHX. The CHX-loaded resins were incubated in water and artificial saliva (at pH 7) for up to 28 days at 37°C. Chlorhexidine content was determined by UV-spectroscopy (255nm). ResultsCHX release was influenced by media composition and drug loading. CHX demonstrated a similar release profile in the two media, however the water showed the higher amount of release in comparison with the inorganic mimetic saliva. CHX release increased proportionally to the concentration of the CHX added, in a linear trend line. Moreover, a high percentage of CHX was not release up to 28 days. ConclusionsDespite the limitations of the present investigation, results from the present study highlight the need of evaluating drug release not only in water but also in saliva. Strategies that increase the complete release of drug from the material should be investigated in order to prevent the development of multiresistant strains.