Term: Polyvinylpyrrolidone

Abbreviation: PVP

Category: Polymer

Definition:Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) is a synthetic, hydrophilic polymer derived from the monomer N-vinylpyrrolidone. It is biocompatible, non-toxic, and highly soluble in water and many organic solvents. PVP is widely used in pharmaceuticals as a binder, stabilizer, and solubilizer. In medical coatings to improve lubricity and biocompatibility.

Source: Synthetic Polymer

Chemical Structure: –[CH₂–CH]ₙ–, where CH carries a pyrrolidone group (–C₄H₆NO)

Common Uses:

1. PVP is used in biomedical applications such as drug delivery systems, wound dressings, contact lens coatings, and hydrogels. 
2. It serves as a plasma volume expander, enhances the biocompatibility of medical device coatings.
3. PVP improves drug solubility and stability in pharmaceutical formulations.

Related Resources: 

Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP Polymer) Hydrophilic Medical Coatings

UV Curing for Medical Devices: Role of PEG, PVP, Chitosan

Hydrophilic Coating Polymers and Chemistries: Complete Guide