The present study to deliver 5-Amino
salicylic acid (5-ASA) for localized chemotherapy of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Microbially degradable polymers especially azo
crosslinked polymers have been investigated for use in targeting of
drugs to colon. Certain plant polysaccharides such as amylose, inulin,
pectin and guar gum remains unaffected in the presence of
gastrointestinal enzymes and pave the way for the formulation of colon
targeted drug delivery systems. The concept of using pH as a trigger to
release a drug in the colon is based on the pH conditions that vary
continuously down the gastrointestinal tract. Times dependent drug
delivery systems have been developed that are based on the principle
to prevent release of drug until 3-4 h after leaving the stomach. Redox
sensitive polymers and bioadhesive systems have also been exploited
to deliver the drugs into the colon.