Progestin permeation through polymer membranes I: diffusion studies on plasma-soaked membranes

The potential of several commercially available polymeric materials for use in controlled-release drug delivery devices was investigated. Progesterone was used as a model hydrophobic drug. The progesterone permeation rates through polydimethylsiloxane, two polyether urethanes, a hydroxyethyl methacrylate, a polyether urethan--polydimethylsiloxane blend, and a cellulosic membrane were determined. The permeabilities were obtained on nonsoaked membranes and on membranes soaked in plasma for varying times. The purpose of the plasma soaks was to examine the effects of lipid absorption and degradative processes within the membrane on progesterone permeability. This study identified several polymers that show potential for use in controlled-release drug delivery devices. The plasma treatment studies showed that several polymers may not be acceptable. The plasma soak studies were interpreted in terms of the mechanisms of drug permeation through the membranes.