Abstract
Alginate-chitosan (anion-cationic polymeric complex) was prepared to control the release rate of silver sulfadiazine (AgSD). Na-alginate (2%) solution containing AgSD was gelled in $CaCl_2$ solution. The gel beads formed were immediately encapsulated with chitosan (CS). The gel matrix and membrane were then reinforced with chondroitin-6-sulfate (Ch6S). Release rate of AgSD from the gel matrix was investigated by placing alginate beads in the sac of cellulose membrane simmered in HEPES-buffer solution. The concentration of AgSD released was analyzed by UV at 264 nm. Incorporation capacity of AgSD in Ca-alginate gel was more than 90%. Alginate-Ch6S-CS could control the release rate of AgSD. The amount of AgSD release was dependent on the AgSD loading dose. Incorporation of tripolyphosphate (polyanionic crosslinker) onto the alginate-Ch6S-CS bead increased the release rate of AgSD. Collagen-coating had no influence on the AgSD release rate. Alginate-Ch6S-CS beads with a sufficiently high AgSD encapsulation were capable of controlling the release of the drug over 10 days. In summary, alginate-Ch6S-CS beads could be used as a sustained delivery for AgSD and provide local targeting with low silver toxicity and patient discomfort.