Time-dependent mucoadhesion of conjugated bioadhesive polymers.

•Polycarbophil showed a rapid and significant loss of bioadhesion over time.•The novel synthetic polymers maintained their bioadhesive performance over time.•Increased hydroxyl groups increase bioadhesive forces with intestinal mucosa.•Fracture strength is more appropriate to study the bioadhesion of rigid polymers.•Tensile work is more appropriate to study the bioadhesion of flexible polymers.