EP0669128B1 — Sustained-release microsphere containing antipsychotic and process for producing the same

USPTO Abstract

A sustained-release microsphere produced by enclosing a hydrophobic antipsychotic such as bromperidol or haloperidol in a base comprising a biocompatible polymer such as polylactic acid or a lactic acid/glycolic acid copolymer. It can exhibit a desired pharmacological effect, where a long-term administration is necessary, by injecting once every 1 to 8 weeks instead of every day. As a result, a remarkable improvement can be expected in the compliance during maintenance therapy. In addition, the use of the biocompatible polymer serves to entirely dispense with surgical operations such as implantation, facilitates hypodermic and intramuscular injection just like the case of suspending injection, and can dispense with the widrawal of the microsphere. Furthermore, the microsphere can be administered with little aversion and pain.