Rolled-up gastroretentive gelatin rings for controlled release of riboflavin and captopril

Abstract

In this study, we introduce a rolled-up ring-shaped gastroretentive device, which enables controlled drug release via the radial position of a drug reservoir relative to its surface. The device was formed by rolling up a gelatin film, which was initially wrapped on the surface of an acrylic cylinder. Prior to rolling, a drug reservoir was formed at a predetermined position of the wrapped film. The device containing the drug was packed within gastric-dissolvable gelatin capsule shell. Upon contact with the simulated gastric medium, the prepared capsule was dissolved and rapidly released the ring-shaped device within two minutes. The deployed system then swelled and retained its shape, before eventually disintegration within 24 h. The disintegration process can be accelerated, if necessary, via the design of “weak points” in the ring’s structure, allowing for safe and programmed evacuation through the lower gastrointestinal tract. The rolled-up ring-shaped devices, containing riboflavin or captopril, allowed to control the release rates by the radial position of the drug reservoirs. The developed expandable gastroretentive device presents a promising solution for reducing daily dosages and enhancing personalized treatment.