BIODEGRADABLE POLYMERS AND ECO-FRIENDLY EXCIPIENTS IN PHARMACEUTICAL DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEMS

Biodegradable polymers play a vital role in modern pharmaceutical and medical device development due to their ability to safely degrade within the body, eliminating the need for surgical removal. Polymers such as PLA, PGA, and PLGA are widely used in absorbable sutures, orthopedic devices, and advanced drug delivery systems, including implants, microspheres, nanoparticles, and in situ gels. Their degradation occurs through bulk orsurface erosion, enabling controlled and sustained drug release. This chapter outlines the classification, chemistry, synthesis, and mechanisms of polymer degradation, along with formulation techniques such as single
and double emulsification methods. It also discusses scale-up strategies, quality control measures, regulatory considerations, and economic perspectives.