The present disclosure relates to a multilayer coatings that include a hydrophobic encasing layer and allow controlled release of a water soluble drug. The encasing layer encases water soluble, or hydrophilic, drugs with a flexible layer and comes in good intimate contact with the water soluble drug layer. Thus, the encasing layer conforms to the water soluble drug and can control the release of the drug. Advantageously, major cuts or fissures in the coating do not cause the water soluble drug to leak or burst out rather, the encasing layer continues to provide modulated release of the drug. The present disclosure also includes methods of making the coating, methods of using the coating, and articles that include the coating.
