Polymeric Materials in Controlled Drug Delivery

Polymers have a crucial role in the development of controlled drug delivery systems. Both synthetic and natural polymers can be used to fabricate drug delivery systems with a predetermined release rate. However, biodegradable polymers are preferred to avoid their accumulation and unwanted toxicity. Polylactide-co-glycolide (PLGA), polycaprolactone, and the use of biocompatible silicone elastomers have been reported. These polymers are synthetic in nature. Polymers like alginate, carboxymethylcellulose, gelatin, chitosan, and others are naturally occurring biodegradable polymers and have an important place in the field of drug delivery systems. Controlled drug delivery systems avoid the release of drugs at undesirable sites and minimize toxicity. In this chapter, we discuss controlled drug delivery systems and the different polymers used in the fabrication of such delivery systems.