BP 704 T Novel Drug Delivery Systems Hr.

no:50

Ocular Drug Delivery Systems

 Introduction

In ocular drug delivery system, there is a main problem of rapid

and extensive elimination of conventional eye drops from the eye . This
problem results in extensive loss of drug. Only a few amount of drug
penetrates the corneal layer and reached to internal tissue of eye . The
main region of drug loss includes lachrymal drainage and drug dilution
by tears . This superfluity reduces the ocular bioavailability and lead to
unwanted toxicity and side effect.

The following characteristics are required to optimize ocular drug

delivery systems

 A good corneal penetration.

 A prolonged contact time of drug with corneal tissue.
 Simplicity of installation and removal for the patient.
 A non-irritative and at ease form (the viscous solution should not irritate
lachrymation and reflex flashing).
 Appropriate rheological properties and concentration of viscolyzer.

Ocular administration of drug is primarily associated with the need to

treat ophthalmic diseases. Eye is the most easily accessible site for
topical administration of a medication. Ideal ophthalmic drug delivery
must be able to sustain the drug release and to remain in the vicinity of
front of the eye for prolong period of time.

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 FACTORS AFFECTING INTRAOCULAR BIOAVAILABILITY:
 1. Inflow & outflow of lacrimal fluids.
 2. Efficient naso-lacrimal drainage.
 3. Interaction of drug with lacrimal fluid.
 4. dilution with tears.
 5. Corneal barriers.
 6. Active ion transport at cornea.

CONVENTIONAL DOSSAGE FORMS -TYPES

 1- SOLUTIONS
 2- SUSPENSIONS
 3- EMULSIONS
 4- OINTMENT
 5- GELS
ADVANTAGE
 They are easily administered by the nurse
 They are easily administered by the patient himself
 They have the quick absorption and effect.
 less visual and systemic side effects.better patient compliance.

DISADVANTAGE
 The very short time the solution stays at the eye surface
 .  Its poor bioavailability.
 The instability of the dissolved drug.
 The necessity of using preservative.

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IDEAL CHARACTERISTICS
Sterility
Isotonicity
Buffer/pH adjustment
Less drainage tendency
Minimum protein binding