Cyclodextrin-Functionalized Hydrogels: A Novel Drug Delivery System for the Delivery of Hydrophobic Drugs

Cyclodextrins (CDs) offer a potential solution to delivery of hydrophobic drugs. Cyclodextrins are capable of hydrophobic drug binding due to their unique property of possessing a hydrophobic interior cavity and a hydrophilic exterior. When hydrophobic drugs are complexed with CD molecules a significant increase has been reported in the bioavailability of those drugs in free solution. The unique characteristics of cyclodextrins facilitate in development of a hydrogel for delivering drugs with varying degree of aqueous solubility. Further, the mechanical and chemical properties of hydrogels can act as an excellent system in delivery of hydrophobic drugs through their gel matrix.