β-Cyclodextrin-dextran polymers for the solubilization of poorly soluble drugs

The aim of this study was to assess the potential of novel beta-cyclodextrin (beta CD)-dextran polymers for drug delivery. The size distribution of beta CD-dextrans (for eventual parenteral administration), the influence of the dextran backbones on the stability of the beta CD/drug complex, the solubilization efficiency of poorly soluble drugs and drug release properties were investigated. Size analysis of different beta CD-dextrans was measured by size exclusion chromatography (SEC) and asymmetrical flow field-flow fractionation (AF4). Stability of drug/beta CD-dextrans was assessed by isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) and molar enthalpies of complexation and equilibrium constants compared to some commercially available beta CD derivatives. For evaluation of the solubilization efficiency, phase-solubility diagrams were made employing hydrocortisone (HC) as a model of poorly soluble drugs, whereas reverse dialysis was used to detect potential drug supersaturation (increased molecularly dissolved drug concentration) as well as controlled release effects. Results indicate that all investigated beta CD-polymers are of appropriate sizes for parenteral administration. Thermodynamic results demonstrate that the presence of the dextran backbone structure does not affect the stability of the beta CD/drug complex, compared to native beta CD and commercially available derivatives. Solubility studies evidence higher solubilizing abilities of these new polymers in comparison to commercially available beta CDs, but no supersaturation states were induced. Moreover, drug release studies evidenced that diffusion of HC was influenced by the solubilization induced by the beta CD-derivatives. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.