Development of a polymeric releasing device for ′2–carbomethoxyphenyl 4–guanidinobenzoate (a proteinase inhibitor): Release rate, in vitro antifibrinolytic activity and in utero contraceptive effect

A polymeric delivery system consisting of ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVAc) was developed for ′2—carbornethoxyphenyl 4—guanidinobenzoate (MSGB), a potent inhibitor of the sperm enzyme acrosin. The optimal device consists of copolymer with 40% vinyl acetate by weight (EVAc/40), 65% drug loading and MSGB with a particle size of 250–499 μm. This formulation yields a device that is highly flexible and can be shaped to many forms and sizes. Construction of the device does not alter the properties of MSGB. Well controlled release of MSGB from the device occurs in vitro and in the uteri of rats. The in vitro release rate under “infinite sink” conditions is essentially the same as the in vivo release rate. The contraceptive effect of the MSGB-releasing device was tested in rabbits by placing a blank (control) device in one uterine horn and an MSGB- releasing device in the contralateral horn. In contrast to blank devices, MSGB-releasing devices completely prevent pregnancy, not only by inhibiting fertilization but also by decreasing implantation. MSGB possesses high in vitro antifibrinolytic activity. These results indicate that a very flexible device can be constructed for uterine application which retains its contraceptive effect by release of MSGB. The antifibrinolytic activity of MSGB may further decrease the menorrhagla that can be associated with IUD use.