Ocular Drug Delivery Systems

Preview this chapter:

Ocular Drug Delivery Systems, Page 1 of 1

< Previous page | Next page > /docserver/preview/fulltext/9789815313567/chapter-3-1.gif

Ophthalmologists and drug delivery scientists face considerable challenges in the realm of ocular drug delivery, primarily attributable to the intricate structural and barrier complexities inherent in the eye. The presence of various barriers, including the multilayered cornea, sclera, conjunctival blood flow, and tear dilution, imposes limitations on the efficacy of drug delivery, affecting both the anterior and posterior segments of the eye. To overcome these challenges, researchers have explored diverse delivery systems to enhance drug delivery and treatment outcomes. Among the conventional ocular drug delivery systems, the ophthalmic solution or eye drop stands out as a widely utilized and consumer-preferred option. Existing market formulations include emulsions, suspensions, and ointments. Concurrently, scientists have been investigating innovative formulations such as liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructure lipid carriers, nanoparticles, hydrogel, and contact Lenses as potential future treatments, offering advancements in ocular drug delivery and serving as alternatives to traditional delivery methods.This book chapter aims to provide a comprehensive summary of both conventional and novel topical formulations for ocular drug delivery. By examining the current landscape of ocular drug delivery systems, this chapter seeks to contribute valuable insights into the ongoing efforts to improve treatment efficacy and patient outcomes in the challenging domain of ocular therapeutics.