Tailored Dual Responsive Hybrid Gelatin Methacryloyl/Poly[2‐(Dimethylamino)Ethyl Methacrylate] Hydrogels for Efficient Ibuprofen Release in Topical Applications

ABSTRACT In this study, biocompatible hydrogels intended for topical delivery of ibuprofen were synthesized from gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) and 2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA) by varying their proportions. The impact of different GelMA and DMAEMA ratios was comprehensively evaluated through several analyses, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), rheological assessments, swelling capability, mechanical property evaluations, cytotoxicity, and drug release studies. We found that the addition of 25% DMAEMA (formulation DMAEMA25) significantly increased the stiffness of the hydrogel, from 7.3 × 10 4 to 1.24 × 10 5 Pa, reaching values comparable to the stiffness of human skin. Additionally, this formulation was not cytotoxic, and drug incorporation was more efficient in it, reaching 57% compared to 18% in pure GelMA. The DMAEMA25 hydrogel also exhibited sustained drug release behavior, accurately described by the Weibull model. These characteristics highlight the potential of the developed hydrogels for use in customized, modulated ibuprofen delivery systems.