Abstract: An improved condom is provided by coating the inner and or outer surface of the condom base with a dissolvable element containing an agent material for delivering the agent material during sexual intercourse. The dissolvable element is made of dissolvable polymer material and/or complex carbohydrate material which are food grade materials and have selected dissolution properties, such that it remains in substantially solid form before use, and dissolves due to human body temperatures and moisture during use to release the agent material in a desired timed release and dosage. The dissolvable element is preferably a film made of polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene oxide, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose and/or carboxymethyl cellulose. The dissolvable element may be formed as a single layer of film or a laminate of different film layers for compound release properties. The dissolvable element is at least partially foamed using inert gases, such as nitrogen, to adjust its dissolution properties.

Abstract: A dissolvable element containing an agent material is used for local administration of the agent material in an internal body area. The dissolvable element is made of dissolvable polymer material and/or complex carbohydrate material which are food grade materials and have selected dissolving properties, such that it remains in substantially solid form before use, and dissolves due to human body temperatures and moisture during use to release the agent material in a desired timed release and dosage. As a contraceptive, the dissolvable element is preferably a film made of polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene oxide, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose and/or carboxymethyl cellulose. The dissolvable element may be formed as a laminate of different film layers for compound release properties, or it may be ground into particles and incorporated in a tampon or suppository. The dissolvable element may be foamed as a means for increasing its dissolution rate.