Abstract: Methods of manufacturing microchip devices are provided for controlled release of molecules, such as drugs. Methods include compression molding and casting, alone or in combination with microfabrication techniques. In preferred embodiments, devices are made by (1) filling a die with a polymer powder; (2) compressing the powder to form a polymer preform; (3) thermal compression molding the preform to form a substrate in a mold having a plurality of protrusions that form reservoirs in the substrate; and (4) filling the reservoirs with a release system comprising the molecules to be released. Alternatively, ceramic devices are formed by casting the substrate from a ceramic powder or a slurry using a mold having protrusions that form reservoirs in the substrate. Control over the release rate and time of the molecules from the reservoirs of the microchip device is provided by incorporating release systems and/or reservoir caps.

Abstract: Methods of manufacturing microchip devices are provided for controlled release of molecules, such as drugs. Methods include compression molding and casting, alone or in combination with microfabrication techniques. In preferred embodiments, devices are made by (1) filling a die with a polymer powder; (2) compressing the powder to form a polymer preform; (3) thermal compression molding the preform to form a substrate in a mold having a plurality of protrusions that form reservoirs in the substrate; and (4) filling the reservoirs with a release system comprising the molecules to be released. Alternatively, ceramic devices are formed by casting the substrate from a ceramic powder or a slurry using a mold having protrusions that form reservoirs in the substrate. Control over the release rate and time of the molecules from the reservoirs of the microchip device is provided by incorporating release systems and/or reservoir caps.