INJECTABLE MULTIMODAL POLYMER DEPOT COMPOSITIONS AND USES THEREOF

摘要

Injectable depot compositions are provided that include a polymer matrix having a plurality of bioerodible, biocompatible polymers wherein each polymer of the plurality of polymers has a specified weight average molecular weight; and the polymer matrix has a broad molecular weight distribution of the plurality of polymers; a solvent having a miscibility in water of less than or equal to 7 wt.% at 25°C, in an amount effective to plasticize the polymer and form a gel therewith; and a beneficial agent. The compositions are have substantially improved the shear thinning behavior and reduced injection force, rendering the compositions readily implanted beneath a patient's body surface by injection. The most preferred polymer matrix is made of poly (lactide-co-glycolide) copolymers, commonly referred to as PLGA. The most preferred solvents are derivatives of benzoic acid, such as benzylbenzoate.