Abstract
[b]Background:[/b] Effective pain control is often limited by the short duration and systemic side effects of conventional lidocaine administration. Transdermal delivery systems offer a non-invasive alternative, but require materials that match skin mechanics and provide sustained drug release. [b]Methods:[/b] We designed a stretchable, biodegradable elastomer patch composed of a Poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS) top layer and a lidocaine-loaded Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) reservoir. The patch’s mechanical properties, degradation behavior, drug release kinetics, transdermal permeation, and analgesic efficacy were systematically evaluated in vitro and in vivo. [b]Results:[/b] The patch exhibited a skin-like modulus and remained flexible during deformation. In vitro, it sustained lidocaine release over 48 h and degraded to ~20% mass over 30 days. Franz cell experiments confirmed effective skin permeation. In a rodent model, the patch significantly increased paw withdrawal thresholds compared to free drug. [b]Conclusion:[/b] This multilayer elastomer patch provides conformal adhesion, sustained lidocaine release, and enhanced local analgesia, offering a promising platform for non-invasive, long-acting pain management.
Keywords: Biodegradable elastomer patch; lidocaine; transdermal drug delivery; pain management; sustained release; skin-mimetic mechanics