Flurbiprofen, S(+), eyedrops: formulation, enantiomeric assay, shelf-life and pharmacology

Aphakic cystoid macula edema, occurring after cataract extraction is ascribed to trauma-induced production of intra-ocular prostaglandins. Sufficient experimental and clinical evidence supports the use of prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors to countervail this clinical condition. The active S(+)-enantiomer of flurbiprofen, a prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor, has been formulated into a stereoselective, ballast free eyedrop solution in a concentration of 0.015%. Analysis by capillary zone electrophoresis shows shelf-life stability up to four years at room temperature of this enantiomer. The inhibitory effect on the synthesis of prostaglandins as measured on a homogenate bovine iris/ciliary body, remained unaffected during a shelf-life period of three years.