Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is a biodegradable and biocompatible polymer widely used in drug delivery and tissue engineering. It is FDA-approved, has tunable mechanical properties, and can be tailored for sustained drug release. This review discusses PLGA's fabrication techniques, degradation behavior, and factors influencing drug release. PLGA is a copolymer of poly(lactic acid) and poly(glycolic acid), with varying ratios affecting its properties. Its physicochemical characteristics, such as hydrophobicity, crystallinity, and molecular weight, influence degradation rates and drug release profiles. PLGA can be processed into various forms, including microparticles, nanoparticles, and implants, using techniques like solvent evaporation, phase separation, and extrusion. Factors affecting degradation include polymer composition, crystallinity, molecular weight, drug type, size, shape, pH, and enzyme activity. Drug release from PLGA devices is often biphasic, with an initial burst followed by a sustained release. Toxicological studies suggest PLGA is generally safe, though nanoscale applications require careful consideration. Modeling of drug release profiles considers diffusion, erosion, and matrix degradation. PLGA's versatility allows it to be used for a wide range of drug delivery applications, from short-term to long-term, with tailored formulations for specific therapeutic needs. Future research aims to optimize PLGA-based systems for improved drug delivery efficiency and safety.Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is a biodegradable and biocompatible polymer widely used in drug delivery and tissue engineering. It is FDA-approved, has tunable mechanical properties, and can be tailored for sustained drug release. This review discusses PLGA's fabrication techniques, degradation behavior, and factors influencing drug release. PLGA is a copolymer of poly(lactic acid) and poly(glycolic acid), with varying ratios affecting its properties. Its physicochemical characteristics, such as hydrophobicity, crystallinity, and molecular weight, influence degradation rates and drug release profiles. PLGA can be processed into various forms, including microparticles, nanoparticles, and implants, using techniques like solvent evaporation, phase separation, and extrusion. Factors affecting degradation include polymer composition, crystallinity, molecular weight, drug type, size, shape, pH, and enzyme activity. Drug release from PLGA devices is often biphasic, with an initial burst followed by a sustained release. Toxicological studies suggest PLGA is generally safe, though nanoscale applications require careful consideration. Modeling of drug release profiles considers diffusion, erosion, and matrix degradation. PLGA's versatility allows it to be used for a wide range of drug delivery applications, from short-term to long-term, with tailored formulations for specific therapeutic needs. Future research aims to optimize PLGA-based systems for improved drug delivery efficiency and safety.