Aspects of the invention described herein include a hydrogel prodrug and methods of making a hydrogel prodrug for drug delivery. Also contemplated are methods of treating, inhibiting, ameliorating or inhibiting a disease or disorder. Without being limiting, the methods for treatment can be directed to a cancer, HIV, a virus, pain, a bacterial infection, a neurological disorder, hemorrhaging, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, high blood pressure, Alzheimer's, or inhibiting a fungal growth in a subject in need.