To further enhance the performance of biodegradable polymer-based medical devices, there is an increasing need to obtain independent control of key properties such as mechanical strength, degradation rate, and bioactivity. In this study, biodegradable copolymers of poly(1,6-bis-p-carboxyphenoxyhexane-co-sebacic anhydride) (CPH:SA) are synthesized, via melt condensation techniques, at three different molar ratios (7 : 3, 5 : 5, and 3 : 7). Tablets of the copolymers are prepared by mold casting at high temperature. Using an in vitro degradation test, copolymer tablets demonstrate a suitable mechanical strength, a slight decrease in pH value, and a slow degradation rate. High cell viability is observed on the surface of the copolymer tablets. The 3-(4,5dimethylthiazol-2-yl) 2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and live/dead staining demonstrate reduced toxicity and high cell survival. In vitro testing with C2C12 cells reveals good cellular attachment and spreading on the tablet surfaces, with the best properties displayed by the 7 : 3 molar ratio copolymer. Materials composed of CPH:SA have the potential to serve as medical implants. (c) 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013