κ-Carrageenan/sericin polymer matrix modified with different crosslinking agents and thermal crosslinking: Improved release profile of mefenamic acid.

The crosslinking of the polymer matrix with compatible macromolecules results in a three-dimensional network structure that offers an enhancement in the controlled release properties of the material. In this sense, this work aimed to improve the release profile of mefenamic acid (MAC) through crosslinking strategies. κ-Carrageenan/sericin crosslinked blend was obtained by covalent and thermal crosslinking and the different formulations were characterized. The gastroresistant potential and release profile were evaluated in the dissolution assay. The effect and characterization of the particles were investigated. Multiple units presented high entrapment efficiency (94.11-104.25), high drug loading (36.50-47.50 %) and adequate particle size (1.34-1.57 mm) with rough surface and visually spherical shape. The Weibull model showed that drug release occurred by relaxation, erosion and Fickian diffusion. Material stability and absence of MAC -polymer interactions were demonstrated by FTIR and thermogravimetric analysis. DSC showed a stable character of MAC in the drug-loaded beads. Moreover, the application studies of κ-Car/Ser/carboxymethylcellulose in the in vitro intestine mode showed that the crosslinked blend increased cell viability (>85 %), while free MAC exhibited a cytotoxic effect. Finally, the crosslinked k-Car/Ser blend MAC -loaded showed promising properties of a sustained release form of anti-inflammatory drug.