Controlled Release of Progesterone from Polyethylene Oxide-Silicone Rubber Matrix

The release of progesterone from monolithic devices composed of different ratios of polyethylene oxide (PEO; mw 20, 000) and hydrophobic polydimethylsiloxane was investigated. Water soluble PEO soaked into the polymer provided controlled release of progesterone. The release rate of progesterone could be controlled by varying the contents of PEO and progesterone in soaking solution. The progesterone release rate from silicone devices increased as the content of PEO in devices increased, while it decreased as the content of PEO in soaking solution increased. The release rate may be made by simple alterations of geometry of devices controlled swelling and the change in the physical structure of polymer network. Hydrophobic polydimethylsiloxane containing PEO and progesterone can provide a contraceptive material for prolonged release of progesterone.