Effect of formulation on the systemic absorption of insulin from enhancer-free ocular devices

Several Gelfoam (absorbable gelatin sponge, USP) based surfactant free devices containing either sodium or zinc insulin were prepared with diluted acetic or hydrochloric acid. They were evaluated by the lowering of the blood glucose concentration in rabbits. The systemic absorption of insulin from the device can be enhanced by using a 5% or higher concentration of acetic acid solution as well as 1% HCl solution. The results indicate that the proposed device prepared with up to 30% of acetic acid solution produced no eye irritation. A single device containing 0.2 mg of insulin is sufficient to control the blood glucose levels in a uniform manner (60% of initial) for over 8 h.