Abstract: This invention relates to compositions and methods for preventing oxidation of beneficial agents.

Abstract: Drug delivery systems and kits are provided that release an anesthetic, such as bupivacaine, over a short duration. Methods of administering and preparing such systems are also provided. Drug delivery systems include a short duration gel vehicle and an anesthetic dissolved or dispersed in the gel vehicle. The gel vehicle comprises a low molecular weight bioerodible, biocompatible polymer and a water-immiscible solvent in an amount effective to plasticize the polymer and form a gel with the polymer. In some instances, a component solvent is used along with the water-immiscible solvent. An efficacy ratio, which is one way to measure the efficacy of a delivery system, can be controlled based on, for example, the construction of the gel vehicle to achieve a desired release profile.

Abstract: Injectable depot compositions are provided that include a bioerodible, biocompatible polymer, a solvent having a miscibility in water of less than or equal to 7 wt. % at 25° C., in an amount effective to plasticize the polymer and form a gel therewith, a thixotropic agent, and a beneficial agent. The solvent comprises an aromatic alcohol, an ester of an aromatic acid, an aromatic ketone, or mixtures thereof. The compositions have substantially improved the shear thinning behavior and reduced injection force, rendering the compositions readily implanted beneath a patient's body surface by injection.

Abstract: Injectable depot compositions are provided that include a bioerodible, biocompatible polymer, an aromatic alcohol having miscibility in water of less than or equal to 7 wt. % at 25° C., in an amount effective to plasticize the polymer and form a gel therewith, and a beneficial agent. The composition may additionally contain an ester of an aromatic acid, or an aromatic ketone. The compositions are readily implanted beneath a patient's body surface by injection, as the aromatic alcohol not only facilitates solubilization of the polymer, but also acts as a thixotropic agent, substantially increasing the shear thinning behavior of the composition.