Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 6, 2026

Slow-release Drug Delivery through Elvax 40W to the Rat Retina: Implications for the Treatment of Chronic Conditions
Published on: September 17, 2014
Alternative delivery of insulin via eye drops
B Xuan1, D A McClellan, R Moore
1Brazos Valley Family Practice Residency, Bryan, Texas, USA.
Background:
Various insulin delivery systems have been considered for systemic absorption other than injections. Although the ocular route has been suggested, its use is limited by the amount of insulin absorbed systemically via eyes. In order to improve the absorption rate of insulin into systemic circulations, the effects of pH and absorption enhancers were studied with rabbit eyes.
Methods:
Insulin eye drops were instilled into eyes of rabbits, and their blood glucose levels were measured with a Glucoscan 200 Meter (Lifescan, Mountain View, CA).
Results:
Systemic absorption of insulin via the ocular route was much more prominent at higher pH (8.0) than at lower pH (3.5). When absorption enhancers such as glycocholate and fusidic acid were added, the insulin absorption increased further markedly.
Conclusion:
It is feasible to administer insulin through the eyes at pH 8.0 with low concentrations of glycocholate or fusidic acid to achieve the therapeutic efficacy of insulin to lower blood glucose to normal levels.
Related Concept Videos
Open Angle Glaucoma: Treatment
Drugs such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, α2- and...
Ophthalmic Drug Delivery Systems
Insulin: Biosynthesis, Chemistry, and Preparation
Damage or functional impairment of β-cells inhibits insulin production, leading to diabetes. Diabetes treatment primarily uses...
Insulin Formulations: Types and Delivery
Short-acting insulins are divided into rapid-acting...
Insulin: Dosing Regimen and Adverse Effects
The basal dose constitutes about 40%-50% of the total daily dose, with the rest as premeal insulin. The mealtime insulin dose should mirror...

