Gliadel Wafer; FDA approved treatment for brain cancer

Gliadel Wafer (polifeprosan 20 with carmustine implant) is indicated in newly diagnosed patients with high-grade malignant glioma as an adjunct to surgery and radiation. Gliadel is also indicated in recurrent glioblastoma multiforme patients as an adjunct to surgery. Gliadel provides localized delivery of chemotherapy directly to the site of the tumor and is the only FDA approved brain cancer treatment capable of doing so. 

Gliadel is a white, dime-sized wafer made up of a biocompatible polymer that contains the cancer chemotherapeutic drug, carmustine (BCNU). After a neurosurgeon removes a high-grade malignant glioma, up to eight wafers can be implanted in the cavity where the tumor resided. Once implanted, Gliadel slowly dissolves, releasing high concentrations of BCNU into the tumor site. The specificity of Gliadel minimizes drug exposure to other areas of the body.

 

Reference:

 1. Dang, Wenbin, et al. "Effects of GLIADEL® wafer initial molecular weight on the erosion of wafer and release of BCNU." Journal of Controlled Release 42.1 (1996): 83-92.

2. www.gliadel.com

 

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