Polymers to treat brain tumours.
Brain tumours are difficult to treat by conventional methods. A biodegradable polymer, poly-[bis(p-carboxyphenoxy)propane sebacic acid] with a nitrosourea, carmustine, has been demonstrated to be biocompatible in the brains of experimental animals and to release drugs in a predictable sustained manner. Carmustine impregnated in polymers appears to be more effective than when delivered by standard methods. A Phase I clinical study has demonstrated the safety of this approach in treating brain tumours and a Phase III placebo-controlled study is currently underway. Other applications of the polymer in the treatment of brain diseases are discussed.
Brem
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Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205.
D000818:Animals; D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D001673:Biodegradation, Environmental; D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*; D002330:Carmustine / Q000008:administration & dosage; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D003907:Dexamethasone / Q000008:administration & dosage; D004343:Drug Implants; D006801:Humans; D011108:Polymers / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D004343:Drug Implants; D011108:Polymers; D003907:Dexamethasone; D002330:Carmustine