pH ‐Sensitive Alginate/Polyvinyl Alcohol/Chitosan Crosslinked With Tetraethyl Orthosilicate Polymeric Hybrid Hydrogel for Biomedical Application

Abstract

The main aim of this study was to develop a cost‐effective, pH‐sensitive Alginate (Alg), PVA, and chitosan (Cs) (Alg/PVA/Cs) hydrogel biocompatible polymer for controlled drug release of azithromycin. Tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) was used to chemically crosslink the hydrogel, improving its structural integrity and pH responsiveness. A customized loading technique was used to introduce azithromycin into the hydrogel matrix. The hydrogels were comprehensively characterized using spectroscopic, microscopic, thermal, and structural techniques. Swelling behavior was evaluated in deionized water, buffer solutions, and electrolyte solutions, alongside determination of the gel fraction. The hydrogel exhibited pronounced swelling under neutral medium, and while gel content analysis confirmed the formation of a three‐dimensional network and percentage crosslinking. In vitro drug release studies were conducted using simulated intestinal fluid (SIF) and simulated gastric fluid (SGF), with azithromycin serving as a model drug. Notably, the Alg/PVA/Cs hydrogel released 96% in SIF (pH 6.8) within 180 min, indicating strong potential for oral drug applications. In pH‐dependent settings, the improved hydrogel showed notable swelling, facilitating targeted and regulated drug release in intestinal conditions. This work offers a practical method for delivering antibiotics to specific sites utilizing a hydrogel platform that is both biocompatible and commercially feasible.