Fabrication technology of chitosan-based IPN: Drug delivery application

Abstract

Chitosan as a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer is a good candidate for preparation of interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) hydrogel with amino and hydroxyl groups. Chitosan-based IPNs can release their active ingredient in response to environmental stimuli like pH and temperature. This chapter describes the preparation of chitosan-based IPNs according to chemical or physical interactions to make semi- or full-IPN hydrogels. Furthermore, drug delivery applications of chitosan-based IPN hydrogel are discussed based on the delivery route.