Formulations for intermittent release of parathyroid hormone (1-34) and local enhancement of osteoblast activities.

The objective of these studies was to develop simple, implantable devices that intermittently release PTH(1-34) and thus could be used for locally stimulating bone formation. The formulations were based on the association polymer system of cellulose acetate phthalate and Pluronic F-127. Release profiles for intermittent devices showed five discrete peaks, whereas sustained devices exhibited zero-order kinetics. Osteoblastic activity was greater for cells intermittently treated with PTH(1-34) compared to sustained exposure. These controlled release devices delivering PTH(1-34) in an intermittent manner may be useful for affecting osteoblast activities in a localized area.