Abstract

Superporous hydrogel (SPH) is three dimensional network of hydrophilic polymer that are not soluble and absorb large amount of water in short period due to its numerous inter connected microscopic pores. These systems swell rapidly and maintain integrity in the harsh stomach environment. Because of its porous structure SPH posses more surface area and shorter diffusion distance. They not only show fast swelling but also have properties like slipperiness, biodegradability, biocompatibility, high mechanical strength, high swelling capacity and stability in acidic condition of stomach. Swollen hydrogel will be strong enough to withstand with shear force, abrasion, pressure generated in stomach by gastric fluid. Because of this property these devices are proposed for extending gastric residence time of drug. To overcome the problems associated with conventional superporous hydrogels related to mechanical strength are modified by developing second generation of superporous hydrogel composite (SPHCs) and third generation of superporous hydrogel hybrids (SPHHs).