A novel class of biocompatible superabsorbent polyelectrolyte hydrogels has been developed as a potential bulking agent for hypocaloric diets. The hydrogel is envisaged to be administered orally, to absorb water in the stomach, thus swelling and giving a sense of fullness, and to be finally expelled by fecal way. The complex phenomena of coupling thermodynamic of sorption and diffusion in the polymer hydrogels, along with the development of techniques for the analysis of chemical-physical parameters and their correlation to sorption and mechanical properties have been studied in details. A full preclinical study has been performed, including an in vitro simulation of gastrointestinal digestion tract passage.  The hydrogel created significantly greater elasticity and viscosity, properties known to enhance satiety, than most used natural fibers on the market.A preliminary human study on 95 patients has also been performed with positive results in terms of satiety enhancement effect.

Superabsorbent polymer hydrogels for GI tract therapies

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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