Controlled release implantable devices

摘要

Implantable devices that deliver a drug to a target location are disclosed. In general, the devices include a portion that engages tissue near the target location and a section with an internal cavity that houses the drug. The drug can be incorporated into a controlled release agent, such as drug-polymer microspheres, which steadily or intermittently release the drug. Alternatively, instead of defining an internal cavity, the section can be formed from a material that includes the controlled release agent. The devices can be used, e.g., to deliver down-regulatory cytokines to a site of inflammation.