Biodegradable polymeric drug delivery systems

The use of biodegradable polymetric materials as drug carriers is a relatively new dimension in polymeric drug delivery systems. A number of biodegradable or bioerodible polymers, such as poly(lactic/glycolic acid) copolymer, poly($\alpha$-amino acid), polyanhydride, and poly (ortho ester) are currently being investigated for this purpose. These polymers are useful for matrix and reservoir-type delivery devices. In addition, when chemical functional groups are introduced to the biodegradable polymer backdone, such as poly (N-(2-hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide), the therapeutic agent can be covalently bound directly or via spacer to the backbone polymer. These polymer/drug conjugates represent another new dimension in biodegradable polymeric drug delivery systems. In addition, examples of biodegradable polymeric durg delivery systems currently being investigated will be discussed for the purpose of demonstrarting the potential importance of this new field.