[Ways to improve ocular bioavailability for topical applications]

The anatomical, physiological and pharmacological properties of the eye explain the short pre-corneal residence time and the poor bioavailability of most eye-drop solutions. Many approaches have been proposed to increase ocular bioavailability of drugs. Most eye-drops include a viscosity agent in their formulation to significantly prolong residence time although the increased viscosity is limited due to patient discomfort. More recent developments include biodegradable inserts, eye-drop based on cyclodextrins, liposomes or nanoparticles.