1.30 Superporous Hydrogels for Drug Delivery Systems

Superporous hydrogels (SPHs) are cross-linked hydrophilic water-swellable polymers, which, regardless of their size in a dry state, can reach their equilibrium swelling capacity in minutes. A few generations of these porous hydrogels have been evolved to address the needs of different drug delivery applications. This chapter reviews the different aspects of SPH materials, including their synthesis, properties, generations, scale up, and safety. From the stability standpoint, the identity, purity, and potency of SPH products are discussed in detail. The chapter discusses SPH applications in drug delivery, including gastric retention and peroral intestinal absorption. The chapter concludes with the potential use of SPHs as a diet aid, superdisintegrant, and cell scaffolding.