Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of treating one or more of the following disease and/or conditions, which comprises administering to a patient in need thereof the compound H-.beta.-D-Nal-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Val-Cys-Thr-NH.sub.2, where the Cysteines are bonded by a disulfide bond, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, most preferably the acetate salt of the compound, in the treatment of certain diseases and/or conditions such as gastroenterological conditions and/or diseases, endocrinological diseases and/or conditions, various types of cancers and conditions associated with cancer such as cancer cachexia and in the treatment of hypotension and panic attacks.

Abstract: A biodegradable polyester prepared from lactic acid, and, optionally, other hydroxy acid or acids. The polyester contains 4-100 carboxyl groups and has an average molecular weight of 1,000 to 200,000 g/mol. Also disclosed are methods of making such polyesters.