POLYMERIC HYDROGEL COMPOSITIONS WHICH RELEASE ACTIVE AGENTS IN RESPONSE TO ELECTRICAL STIMULUS

摘要

A polymeric hydrogel composition is described for the delivery of a pharmaceutically active agent when an electrical stimulus is applied to the composition. The composition comprises a polymer which forms the hydrogel, such as poly vinyl alcohol (PVA) cross-linked with diethyl acetamidomalonate (DAA), an electroactive polymer such as polyaniline and a pharmaceutically active agent such as an analgesic, and in particular, indomethacin. The composition can be subcutaneously implanted at a targeted site and under normal conditions, the active agent will be entrapped in the hydrogel itself. However, upon the application of an electric current to the hydrogel, the active agent will be released. When the electric current is removed, the change is reversed and the active agent will cease to be released. In one embodiment of the invention, the hydrogel composition is for use in alleviating chronic pain.

主权项

1. A polymeric hydrogel composition for the delivery of a pharmaceutically active agent to a human or animal when an electrical current is applied to the composition, the composition comprising:
a polymer which forms a hydrogel; an electroactive polymer; and a pharmaceutically active agent;wherein the pharmaceutically active agent is released from the hydrogel composition when an electrical stimulus is applied to the hydrogel composition.