An Appraisal of pH triggered Bacitracin drug release, through composite hydrogel systems

Abstract

Comparative investigations on environmentally triggered drug delivery and wound healing characteristics of flexible hydrogel composites, Chitosan-Gelatin (C/G) and 2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate-Gelatin (H/G); are presented here. These composites, prepared through facile synthesis and curing methods, indicate the potential to smartly respond to the pH changes in wounds by releasing drug simultaneously and aiding in faster healing. An in-vitro investigation of the composite characteristics were included testing for Equilibrium Water Capacity Studies, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) investigations as well as UV based drug release and gravimetric hydrogel degradation profiles. This was followed by cutaneous application testing of the hydrogel systems in balb-c mice. Observations and testing results indicated the potential applicability of the hydrogel systems as dressings for topical/transdermal applications, provided that further detailed in-vivo characteristics are accounted for.