Flurbiprofen-loaded acrylate polymer nanosuspensions for ophthalmic application

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Materials Science
• Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background:

• Cataract surgery can induce intra-ocular inflammation and myosis.
• Improving drug delivery to the eye is crucial for managing post-operative complications.
• Flurbiprofen (FLU) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to treat ocular inflammation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize flurbiprofen-loaded polymeric nanoparticles for enhanced intra-ocular drug delivery.
• To evaluate the anti-inflammatory efficacy and safety of these nanosuspensions in an ocular trauma model.

Main Methods:

• Polymeric nanoparticles were prepared using Eudragit RS100R and RL100R via a quasi-emulsion solvent diffusion technique.
• Nanoparticle characteristics (size, zeta-potential) and stability were assessed.
• In vitro dissolution and in vivo anti-inflammatory efficacy in rabbit eyes were evaluated.

Main Results:

• Nanoparticles exhibited mean sizes around 100 nm with a positive zeta-potential (+40/+60 mV).
• Controlled in vitro release of flurbiprofen was observed.
• Flurbiprofen-loaded nanosuspensions showed no ocular toxicity and effectively inhibited the miotic response, with higher aqueous humor drug levels compared to conventional eye drops.

Conclusions:

• Flurbiprofen-loaded Eudragit nanoparticles offer a promising approach for intra-ocular drug delivery.
• The nanosuspension system enhances drug availability and provides effective anti-inflammatory effects with improved safety profile.
• This formulation could be beneficial for preventing myosis after extracapsular cataract surgery.