Biodegradable elastomers in drug delivery

Abstract

Background: Biodegradable elastomers have been used in many different manners for controlled drug delivery. The development of new biodegradable elastomers has recently increased, driven mainly by tissue engineering research. Objective: This review outlines the different uses of biodegradable elastomers in controlled release. Methods: This review was limited to those papers wherein the polymer chosen as the delivery vehicle was demonstrably elastomeric. Conclusion: Biodegradable elastomers have an established role in controlled release and an expanding role in combination scaffolds providing controlled release and mechanical stimulation capability for tissue regeneration/engineering.

Keywords::

• aliphatic polyester
• controlled release
• elastomer
• poly(urethane)
• tissue engineering