Tolterodine tartrate loaded biodegradable and pH-responsive amphiphilic block copolymer (PF127) hydrogels: synthesis, characterization, and acute toxicity evaluation

Abstract

ABSTRACT pH-responsive hydrogels gained remarkable attention for an effective controlled delivery of therapeutic agent for biomedical applications. The purpose of present study was to develop novel pluronic-co-poly (MAA) hydrogels for pH-sensitive controlled release of Tolterodine tartrate. Free radical polymerization of pluronic F127 and methacrylic acid was accomplished in the presence of ethylene glycol dimethacrylate and benzoyl peroxide for controlled release of Tolterodine tartrate by formulating and evaluating chemically cross-linked pluronic-co-poly (MAA) hydrogels. Different proportions of pluronic F127, methacrylic acid and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate were blended to fabricate pH-responsive hydrogels. Effects of pH and concentration of polymer, monomer and crosslinker were evaluated on degree of grafting. Fabricated hydrogels were characterized for compatibility of drug and excipients by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopic analysis, thermal analysis by using Differential Scanning Calorimetry and Thermogravimetric analysis, surface morphology by Scanning Electron Microscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis and sol-gel fraction analysis. Acute toxicity studies on animal model were carried out. Present study concludes that Pluronic-co-poly (MAA) hydrogels are definitely an effective and promising approach for controlled drug delivery of Tolterodine tartrate.