Polymers

Question 1

Name and explain two types of matrix systems

Answer 1

-Slowly eroding matrix
-Inert plastic matrix

Question 2

Name the two ways by which polymers are classified

Answer 2

According to their source(Natural, semi-synthetic and Synthetic)
According to their characteristics when used as CDDS (Insoluble erodable, Insoluble Inert, hydrophilic, matrix system)

Question 3

Biodegradable polymers are divided into two namely

Answer 3

-Natural biodegradable polymers (eg. Gelatin-oral controlled drug delivery, collagen-ocular drug delivery, albumin-chemotherapy, dextran-colonic delivery of drugs)
-Synthetic biodegradable polymers (Aliphatic polyesters eg polyglycolic acid which delivers drug in form of microspheres and implants, polylactic acid - used in preparation of sutures or orthopedic devices, and polycaprolactone-to deliver cyclosporine in the form of nanoparticles)

Question 4

Advantages of biodegradable polymers

Answer 4

Localized release of drugs
Reduced side effects
Sustained drug delivery
Reduced dosing frequency
Good stability of drug

Question 5

State and explain the two types of bioerosion

Answer 5

Bulk erosion: Uniform degradation of polymer throughout the matrix
Surface erosion: Degradation of polymer occur only on the surface of the matrix