Sustained release of insulin by double-layered implant using poly(D,L-lactic acid).

This report describes the advantage of double-layered implants using low molecular weight poly(DL-lactic acid) in the sustained release of insulin. The double-layered implant consisted of a polymer matrix containing insulin and a polylactic acid layer which was coated partially on one of the surfaces of the insulin:polymer matrix. The double-layered implants were compared with single-matrix implants from the standpoint of the in vitro dissolution test and in vivo performance. In vitro release rates were controlled by changing the amount of poly(DL-lactic acid) used in the polymer layer. In an in vivo test using diabetic animals, the double-layered implants provided a sustained release of insulin for 19 d, as judged by the changes in blood glucose levels and serum insulin levels after the subcutaneous implantation.