Exploring Natural Polymers for the Development of Nifedipine Sustained-Release Matrix System

This review will concentrate on the use of natural polymers, such as xanthan gum, tamarind gum, fenugreek gum, and chitosan as part of nifedipine sustained-release matrix systems: the animal-based research will be emphasized. The swelling, gel formation, viscosity, and mucoadhesive characteristics of natural polymers are effective in drug release control to provide a long-lasting and controlled therapeutic plasma concentration. The polymers have potential to increase bioavailability, stability, and safety which have been shown through different formulation strategies such as direct compression, solvent evaporation, and extrusion-spheronization as well as pharmacokinetic assessment in rats and rabbits, in vivo. Although they have these benefits, which include biocompatibility, biodegradability, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability, the issues of batch variability, mechanical constraints, and regulatory barriers are still present. The next generation of such polymer-based systems needs to focus on standardization, mechanistic knowledge, long-term stability and regulatory compatibility to maximize the clinical utility of these future systems.