GB2513267A — Injectable flowable composition comprising buprenorphine

USPTO Abstract

A biodegradable implant formed in situ, in a patient, comprises the steps of: (a) injecting a composition comprising (i) at least one biodegradable thermoplastic polymer which is at least substantially insoluble in body fluid and is selected to be a poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) having a carboxy terminal group; (ii) a biocompatible polar aprotic organic liquid which comprises an amide, an ester, a carbonate, a ketone, a lactam, an ether, a sulfonyl, or any combination thereof; which has a solubility in aqueous medium or body fluid ranging from insoluble to completely soluble in all proportions; and, (iii) buprenorphine, a metabolite, or a prodrug thereof wherein the flowable composition is injected into the body whereupon it transforms in situ into a solid implant and wherein the buprenorphine, the metabolite, or the prodrug thereof is present from 1 wt. % to 30 wt. % of the flowable composition; and (b) allowing the biocompatible polar aprotic liquid to dissipate to produce a solid biodegradable implant.