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Biodegradable microspheres for vitreoretinal drug delivery.
R Herrero-Vanrell1, M F Refojo
1Dpto Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, 28040, Madrid, Spain. rociohv@eucmax.sim.ucm.es
Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews
|October 24, 2001
Summary
Biodegradable polymeric microspheres offer a promising alternative to frequent intravitreous injections for treating vitreoretinal diseases, enabling sustained drug delivery and reducing complication risks.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biomaterials Science
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Vitreoretinal disorders are a leading cause of blindness.
- Current treatments necessitate frequent intravitreous injections, increasing complication risks.
- Controlled drug delivery systems present a viable alternative for sustained ocular drug levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review literature on biodegradable polymeric microspheres for intravitreous injection.
- To highlight their potential in treating vitreoretinal diseases.
- To discuss advantages over conventional intravitreous injections.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of biodegradable polymeric microspheres for ocular drug delivery.
- Focus on microspheres for intravitreous injection to treat posterior segment diseases.
- Analysis of polymers like poly(lactic acid) and poly(glycolic acid).
Main Results:
- Biodegradable polymeric microspheres enable sustained drug release via single intravitreous injection.
- Commonly used polymers (PLA, PGA) are biocompatible and biodegradable.
- These systems offer an alternative to repeated injections for vitreoretinal pathologies.
Conclusions:
- Biodegradable polymeric microspheres are effective for sustained drug delivery in the posterior eye.
- They reduce the need for frequent intravitreous injections, thereby minimizing risks.
- This technology holds significant potential for managing vitreoretinal diseases.