Abstract
Background: Neglected diseases correspond to a group of infectious diseases that affect mainly the poorest people and are not deeply researched. Among these neglected diseases, schistosomiasis stands out. The clinical course of this disease can vary from forms where there is no presence of symptoms, up to extremely severe cases, which lead to death. Praziquantel, PZQ, is the most common drug used for the treatment of schistosomiasis, however, PZQ presents poor solubility and bioavailability.
Objective: To overcome this problem, this work presents a new copolymer based on poly (butylene succinate), PBS, and polyethylene glycol 6000, PEG. Method: A composite based on this copolymer and organophilic nanoclay was prepared by in situ polycondensation, aiming to test the effect of the clay on the release profile of the drug. Samples were characterized using several techniques. Results: The results demonstrated that both the copolymer and the composite were able to increase the solubility of the drug, making it fully available within the time period examined. Among the materials tested, the composite presented a more controlled release profile, allowing the entire drug to be available in the dissolution medium for 72 h. Conclusions: The obtained results allowed the conclusion that composite systems based on PBS and PEG could be of great importance in the treatment of schistosomiasis, combining low cost and ease of preparation, enabling the use of lower doses of the drug, which could increase the efficiency of treatment and the quality of life of people infected.Keywords: Copolymer, poly (butylene succinate), polyethylene glycol, praziquantel, schistosomiasis, solubility.
Graphical Abstract
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