Pharmaceutics, KBHSS Institute of Pharmacy Bhaygaon Road Malegaon Camp, Nashik
The field of biodegradable polymers is one that is developing quickly. Their use in pharmaceutical drug delivery systems for therapeutic agents is the main topic of this review. Despite the fact that polymers are frequently utilized in pharmaceutical packaging, this article highlights their function in creating a variety of dosage forms. The creation of biodegradable polymer-based systems offers several benefits, including the ability to deliver pharmaceutical agents systemically or site-specifically without requiring the delivery system to be retrieved later.
Biodegradable polymers retain their functional properties for a limited duration in vivo and subsequently degrade into byproducts that can either dissolve or be metabolized and safely eliminated from the body. For in vivo applications, the polymers used in such systems must exhibit essential characteristics, including biocompatibility, processability, sterilization stability, and adequate shelf life. For each therapeutic agent and application, it is crucial to evaluate the properties of both the drug whether the formulation is and the delivery method to ascertain optimal for the intended drug delivery purpose [2]. Biodegradation occurs through enzymatic activity and/or chemical processes associated with living organisms. It generally proceeds in two stages. First, polymers are fragmented into lower molecular weight species through abiotic in the second stage, these polymer fragments undergo bio assimilation by microorganisms, ultimately leading to their mineralization. The biodegradability of a polymer is not solely dependent on its three origins but also on the condition of the environment and the composition of its chemicals. Various mechanisms and techniques for estimating polymer biodegradation have been comprehensively reviewed [16]. Biodegradable polymers have wide-ranging applications in the medical field and are primarily classified into drug delivery systems [3,4], wound healing products [5,6], and surgical implant devices [7]. Among these, the development of biopolymeric drug delivery systems has attracted significant attention, particularly for controlled release applications. Drug delivery within the human body can be effectively regulated through biodegradable capsules [18]. Notably, biodegradable polymers are frequently employed in the design of novel formulations, with the buccal mucosa serving as a favorable target due to its high permeability [19]. In this context, drug delivery via biodegradable polymers through the buccal route is considered safe, protective, and fast-Acting. In wound healing, biodegradable polymers are utilized in the production of bioresorbable non-wovens for tissue repair [10], as well as in conventional products such as sutures, staples, and meshes [11]. Likewise, the application of biodegradable scaffolds in tissue engineering has shown great promise [12]. These polymers are not only renewable and cost-effective but are also available in diverse forms [13]. Their bioactive properties make them especially suitable for wound healing, as they can promote cell growth, regeneration, antimicrobial activity, and immunomodulation [14]. Additionally, their high water-absorbing capacity enhances their effectiveness in wound care applications. In recent years, significant progress has been made in engineering biodegradable polymers capable of releasing drugs directly at the site of injury, further improving their potential for healing applications. Moreover, many biopolymers possess excellent film-forming abilities, making them useful for conventional and commodity applications [15].
Borse Komal*, Deore Ruchika, Pagar Sarla, Nikam Sakshi, Dode Raj, Bairagi Vinod, Biodegradable Polymers in Formulation, Int. J. Sci. R. Tech., 2025, 2 (11), 477-483. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17638267
10.5281/zenodo.17638267
