In this study, slow release materials-poly(lactide-coglycolide) (PLGA) ultrafine fiber mats containing different ketoconazole (KCZ) contents were prepared and their release behaviors were investigated in vitro. PLGA/KCZ ultrafine fiber mats were prepared via electrospinning and characterized by means of scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermal gravimetric analysis. The slow release properties of PLGA/KCZ fiber mats in vitro were studied by measuring the concentrations of KCZ dissolved in the phosphate buffered solution (pH ¼ 4.5) at a programmed time. Results indicated that KCZ could be dispersed in PLGA very well in a wide range of KCZ content from 10 to 100% with respect to PLGA. Most KCZ in PLGA fibers were physically dispersed. The thermal decomposition temperature of PLGA was lowered due to the incorporation of KCZ. With increased drug concentration, the release amount would increase in unit time. The two-stage releases would be sustained to achieve the effective utilization of KCZ. POLYM. COMPOS., 34:757-762, 2013. ª 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
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