Design, Optimization, and Characterization of pH-Responsive Hydrogel Microspheres for Colon-Specific Delivery of Mesalazine

Abstract

Background: Colon-specific drug delivery systems are critical for the localized treatment of colonic disorders such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, minimizing systemic side effects and enhancing therapeutic outcomes. Mesalazine (5 aminosalicylic acid) is a well-established anti-inflammatory drug for such conditions but suffers from premature release and degradation in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Objective: The present study aimed to develop and optimize pH-responsive hydrogel microspheres for the targeted delivery of mesalazine to the colon.