Preparation and characterization of biodegradable antibiotic-containing poly(ε-caprolactone) microcapsules

The biodegradable poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) microcapsules containing antibiotic were prepared by emulsion solvent evaporation method. The effect of manufacturing condition, such as stirring rate, stirring time, and emulsifier contents on the form distribution of PCL microcapsules were investigated using an image analyzer and a scanning electron microscope. And the degradation behaviors of the microcapsules and the films in buffer solution were determined by GPC analysis. The drug release test of the microcapsules in phosphate buffer solution was characterized by UV spectroscopy. The resulting microcapsules showed the wrinkle and spherical forms. The degradation rate of the microcapsules was faster than that of the film. The release rate of the microcapsules was increased with increasing the emulsifier content, due to the increased interface between the microcapsules and the release medium.