Linear correlation between rheological, mechanical and mucoadhesive properties of polycarbophil polymer blends for biomedical applications.

Polycarbophil is widely used in a variety of pharmaceutical formulations, mainly for their strong ability to adhere to the epithelial and mucous barriers (bio/mucoadhesion). On the other hand, its association with the thermoresponsive polymer (poloxamer 407) has been poorly explored. This work investigates the rheological, mechanical and mucoadhesive properties of polymer blends containing polycarbophil and poloxamer 407, in order to select the best formulations for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. Mechanical (hardness, compressibility, adhesiveness, softness, and mucoadhesion) and rheological characteristics (consistency index, yield value and hysteresis area) showed that 20% (w/w) poloxamer 407- polymer blends exhibited higher values parameters. However, the rheological interaction parameter, which was more sensible than the mechanical interaction parameter, revealed higher synergism for systems comprising 15% (w/w) poloxamer 407, due to the system organization and polymers' properties. Furthermore, gelation temperatures were appropriated, suggesting that polymer blends can be used as biomedical materials, and displaying easy administration, enhanced retention and prolonged residence time at the site of application. Therefore, rheological, mechanical and mucoadhesive characterization provided a rational basis for selecting appropriated systems, useful for mucoadhesive drug delivery systems and biomedical applications.