Interpolymer complexed polysaccharides: A means for colon targeting

Colonic microflora is recognized as a preferable triggering component in the design of colon specific drug delivery systems since there is an abrupt increase of the bacterial population and corresponding enzyme activities in the colon. The metabolism of plant polysaccharides by microflora of large intestine has been extensively investigated. However, these polysaccharides in their putative form are soluble in acidic pH of stomach. Therefore, investigations have been carried out to use modified or cross linked polysaccharides for preventing drug release from dosage forms in the stomach. This book deals with colon targeting of corticosteroid for treatment of inflammatory bowel disease employing interpolymer complex between natural polymers. The interpolymer complexed films can be used for coating tablets that can effectively deliver the drugs to colon. This book should be especially useful to the researchers aiming to design dosage forms for delivering drugs in the colon either for local action or for increasing the absorption.Shorttitle