Mechanism of mucoadhesion
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for an explanation of the mechanism through which mucoadhesion occurs, which involves the adherence of a substance to mucosal surfaces. This entails discussing the physical and chemical interactions that facilitate this adhesion.
Answer
Mucoadhesion involves a contact stage for close substrate contact and a consolidation stage where adhesion forces strengthen the bond.
The mechanism of mucoadhesion generally occurs in two stages: the contact (wetting) stage, where the mucoadhesive spreads over the substrate for close contact, and the consolidation stage, where forces such as van der Waals forces, hydrogen bonding, and electrostatic interactions strengthen the adhesion.
Answer for screen readers
The mechanism of mucoadhesion generally occurs in two stages: the contact (wetting) stage, where the mucoadhesive spreads over the substrate for close contact, and the consolidation stage, where forces such as van der Waals forces, hydrogen bonding, and electrostatic interactions strengthen the adhesion.
More Information
Mucoadhesion is crucial for drug delivery systems, as it allows medications to adhere to mucosal surfaces, improving absorption and increasing the drug's effectiveness. The interaction primarily occurs through electrostatic and non-covalent bonds.
Tips
A common mistake is not distinguishing between the contact and consolidation stages, leading to misunderstanding of how mucoadhesion is maintained.
Sources
- Mucoadhesive drug delivery system: An overview - PMC - pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- The basics and underlying mechanisms of mucoadhesion - sciencedirect.com
