Tailored-interpenetrating polymer network beads of κ-carrageenan and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose for controlled drug delivery

Interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) beads of κ-Carrageenan and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (SCMC) containing Ibuprofen were prepared by water-in-water emulsion gelation process using AlCl 3 as a cross-linking agent. The impact of different formulation variables like polymer ratio, gelation time, concentration of crosslinker on physico-chemical parameters and in-vitro drug release were studied. The IPN beads were investigated through Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis. The prepared beads were slightly rough, folded spherical in shape and reflected improved drug encapsulation efficiency. Swelling ability and drug release of beads in alkaline medium was substantial as that of acidic medium. Formulations showed non-Fickian transport mechanism. The results of the study indicate that drug-loaded pH sensitive IPN beads could be used to diminish drug release in an acidic medium and to regulate the drug release in alkaline medium, which would help to minimize the gastric side effects of the model NSAID ibuprofen.