polifeprosan 20

Polifeprosan 20 is a biodegradable copolymer used as a drug delivery matrix in the Gliadel Wafer, an intracranial implant for local chemotherapy. The wafer contains carmustine (BCNU), an alkylating agent, homogeneously distributed within the copolymer matrix of poly [bis(p-carboxyphenoxy)] propane and sebacic acid in a 20:80 molar ratio. After surgical removal of brain tumors such as high-grade glioma or recurrent glioblastoma multiforme, these wafers are implanted into the resection cavity. The polymer slowly dissolves to release carmustine directly at the tumor site over several days, bypassing the blood–brain barrier and minimizing systemic toxicity. Carmustine exerts its anti-cancer effect by causing DNA and amino acid damage that leads to cell death[2][3][4][5][6].

Brand names

Gliadel

Other names

polifeprosan 20 with carmustine implantpolifeprosan20 with carmustine implantpolifeprosan-20 with carmustine implantcarmustine polifeprosan 20 wafer