Sequential Release of Multiple Drugs from Flexible Drug Delivery Films

Sequential release of drugs aligned with the phases of tissue healing could reduce scarring. To achieve this aim, layered film devices comprising cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP) and Pluronic F-127 (Pluronic) were loaded with ketoprofen, quercetin, and pirfenidone. Citrate plasticizers were added to impart flexibility. Release of two or three drugs in sequence over several days was obtained for all multilayered devices tested. Mechanical analysis showed that elongation increased and modulus decreased with increasing plasticizer content. Release profiles can be tailored by order of layers, plasticizer concentration, and drug loaded, making CAP-Pluronic an appealing system for inhibiting scar tissue formation.