Colorectal cancer, which is difficult to treat and has a high recurrence rate, is a challenging target. Here, we propose a novel multi-layered sheet-like device with photothermal switching for the achievement of both hyperthermia and local chemotherapy. The device was fabricated by modifying polydopamine on the surface of a polymer thin film (nanosheet) and combining it with a drug-loaded poly(lactic acid) nanosheet, and was demonstrated to control the drug release reversibly. It is suggested that several percent of loaded drug was repeatedly released by irradiating near-infrared light, indicating the high potential of minimally invasive long-term treatment of colorectal cancer. Graphical abstract