Drug delivery modeling in COMSOL

Core-shell systems are widely utilized in drug delivery research due to their ability to provide controlled release and enhanced stability for therapeutic agents. Using COMSOL Multiphysics®, researchers can model and simulate drug transport within these systems to optimize design parameters before experimental implementation.

In a typical core-shell model, the core contains the active drug, while the shell serves as a protective barrier, controlling the diffusion rate. COMSOL enables the coupling of mass transport, diffusion, and reaction kinetics within the core and shell domains. The Transport of Diluted Species interface is often employed to simulate drug diffusion through both layers under physiological conditions. Boundary conditions can incorporate factors such as permeability, degradation of the shell, and interaction with surrounding media.

These simulations provide insights into drug release profiles, enabling prediction of sustained or targeted delivery. By adjusting parameters like shell thickness, porosity, and diffusion coefficients, researchers can design systems tailored for specific therapeutic needs. Additionally, COMSOL’s ability to handle multiphysics interactions—such as temperature or pH effects—offers a comprehensive platform for realistic modeling.

Core-shell drug delivery modeling in COMSOL helps reduce experimental costs and time, accelerates product development, and ensures more efficient and predictable release mechanisms, paving the way for advanced drug delivery solutions.In this model we have used transport of diluted species.

Key points:

• Drug penetration coefficient
• Drug release rate and its optimization
• Validation with laboratory model