Biocompatible copolymers and thermo-responsive hydrogels formed from the copolymers are disclosed. The biocompatible copolymers include monomers comprising polysaccharides or derivatives thereof, therapeutic agents or derivatives thereof, and thermo-responsive monomers and are cross-linked with an acrylamide-containing crosslinker. The hydrogels are used as implant materials to treat or prevent joint damage or osteoarthritis in a subject.
