Drug release rates from copolymer hydrogels were controlled by their hydrophilic-hydrophobic balances. As a model copolymer hydrogel, poly(acrylamide-co-styrene) was synthesized at different monomer composition. Release mechanisms of propranolol-HCl from the copolymer matrices were investigated. Swelling rates of the copolymer hydrogels retarded as their hydrophobicity increased. Swelling kinetics of the copolymer hydrogels regulated drug release rates via polymer relaxation controlled release mechanisms. Zero order drug release could thus be achieved within certain periods.