Synthesis of chitosan succinate and chitosan phthalate and their evaluation as suggested matrices in orally administered, colon-specific drug delivery systems.

The naturally occurring polymer chitosan was reacted separately with succinic and phthalic anhydrides. The resulting semisynthetic polymers were assessed as potential matrices for colon-specific, orally administered drug delivery. Sodium diclofenac was used as the dispersed model drug. The prepared matrices were incorporated into tablets, which were evaluated in vitro. The evaluation included dissolution studies conducted under simulated gastrointestinal conditions of pH and transit times. The percentage fluid uptake was used to indicate the ability of the matrix to protect an embedded drug from gastric juices. The prepared matrices resisted dissolution under acidic conditions. On the other hand, improved drug release profiles were observed under basic conditions. Therefore, the results suggest the suitability of the prepared matrices in colon specific, orally administered drug delivery system. However, future in vivo testing is planned to fully establish the suitability of the prepared polymers for colon-specific drug delivery.