Preparation and Properties of Modified Chitosan Films for Drug Release

A novel method of preparing modified chitosan films was developed. Bi- and tri-component chitosan films were prepared by blending chitosan with high molecular weight polyoxyethylene. The films were loaded with 8-hydroxy-7-iodoquinoline-5-sulfonic acid which was chosen as a model drug. The properties of the films were studied with respect to crystallinity, thermal stability and swelling degree. These properties were shown to depend on the ratio of polyoxyethylene/chitosan. The drug release profile from the films was measured in a buffer at pH 6.8 and 37°C. The antimycotic effect of the films against Candida albicans was determined.