Implantable polymeric device for sustained release of buprenorphine

Abstract

The present invention provides compositions, methods, and kits for treatment of opiate addiction and pain. The invention provides a biocompatible nonerodible polymeric device which releases buprenorphine continuously with generally linear release kinetics for extended periods of time. Buprenorphine is released through pores that open to the surface of the polymeric matrix in which it is encapsulated. The device may be administered subcutaneously to an individual in need of continuous treatment with buprenorphine.

1 - 36 . (canceled) 
     
     
         37 . A method of treating pain in a human in need thereof, the method comprising subcutaneously implanting into the human at least one implantable device comprising buprenorphine and a polymer matrix, wherein the buprenorphine is released from the implantable device at a rate that results in a therapeutically-effective amount in the human of about 0.1 mg per day to about 5 mg per day. 
     
     
         38 . The method of  claim 37 , wherein the polymer is resistant to chemical destruction. 
     
     
         39 . The method of  claim 37 , wherein the polymer is resistant to physical destruction. 
     
     
         40 . The method of  claim 37 , wherein the polymer is non-erodible. 
     
     
         41 . The method of  claim 37 , wherein the polymer comprises ethylene vinyl acetate. 
     
     
         42 . The method of  claim 37 , wherein the device releases a therapeutically-effective amount of buprenorphine for at least 3 months. 
     
     
         43 . The method of  claim 37 , wherein the therapeutically-effective amount of buprenorphine is from about 0.2 mg per day to about 1 mg per day. 
     
     
         44 . The method of  claim 37 , wherein the therapeutically-effective amount of buprenorphine is about 0.3 mg per day. 
     
     
         45 . The method of  claim 37 , wherein the buprenorphine is a pharmaceutically-acceptable salt. 
     
     
         46 . The method of  claim 37 , wherein the buprenorphine is buprenorphine hydrochloride. 
     
     
         47 . A method of treating pain, the method comprising subcutaneously implanting buprenorphine into a human in need thereof, thereby providing a therapeutically-effective amount of buprenorphine. 
     
     
         48 . The method of  claim 47 , wherein the therapeutically-effective amount is from about 0.1 mg per day to about 5 mg per day. 
     
     
         49 . The method of  claim 47 , wherein the therapeutically-effective amount is from about 0.2 mg per day to about 1 mg per day. 
     
     
         50 . The method of  claim 47 , wherein the therapeutically-effective amount is about 0.3 mg per day. 
     
     
         51 . The method of  claim 47 , wherein the therapeutically-effective amount is sustained for at least 3 months. 
     
     
         52 . The method of  claim 47 , wherein the buprenorphine is a pharmaceutically-acceptable salt. 
     
     
         53 . The method of  claim 47 , wherein the buprenorphine is buprenorphine hydrochloride. 
     
     
         54 . The method of  claim 47 , wherein the buprenorphine is implanted with a carrier. 
     
     
         55 . The method of  claim 54 , wherein the carrier is a polymer matrix. 
     
     
         56 . The method of  claim 55 , wherein the polymer comprises ethylene vinyl acetate.