Advances in Clinical Optometry: Ophthalmic Drug Therapy and Drug Delivery System

Background: Ocular drug delivery system refers to the approaches, formulations and technologies, for transporting a pharmaceutical compound in the eye in order to safely achieve the desired therapeutic effect. The conventional topical eye drop solutions, emulsions, suspensions and ointments, although being the most convenient and patient compliant route/system of drug administration, can hardly maintain therapeutic drug levels for a long duration in target tissues. Some other drug delivery systems which are also relatively new, in terms of widespread adoption include sustained-release implants and inserts.

Objective: Since medications in general constantly require modifications in chemical constituents, formulation and also in their delivery systems for improved efficacy, novel, safe and patient compliant formulations such as suspensions and implants, and drug delivery devices/technologies such as contact lenses and eye drop dispensers capable of delivering and maintaining consistent drug levels in target tissues are continually being developed; enhancing ocular bioavailability of therapeutics through micro dosing and sustained drug release.

Methods: This was basically peer reviewed by the researchers after searching through literatures objectively to bridge the missing gaps.

Conclusion: Optometrists and other eye care practitioners should therefore take advantage of these novel drugs to improve their practices for better patient management outcomes.