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Nanotechnology in ocular drug delivery
Sanjeeb K Sahoo1, Fahima Dilnawaz, S Krishnakumar
1Laboratory of Nanomedicine, Institute of life Sciences, Nalco Square, Chandrasekharpur, Bhubaneswar 751 023, India. sanjeebsahoo2005@gmail.com
Drug Discovery Today
|February 16, 2008
Summary
Efficient ocular drug delivery faces challenges due to eye barriers. Nanoparticulate systems offer improved bioavailability for treating eye diseases, with nanotechnology advancing diagnostics and therapeutics.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Science
- Ophthalmology
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Topical ocular drug delivery faces significant bioavailability challenges due to anatomical and physiological barriers in the eye.
- Conventional dosage forms (solutions, suspensions, ointments) exhibit limited efficacy in treating ocular diseases.
- Efficient drug delivery to the eye remains a critical unmet need in pharmaceutical research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the constraints in ocular drug delivery.
- To summarize the applications of nanoparticulate systems in ocular drug delivery.
- To explore the potential of nanotechnology in advancing ocular drug delivery and therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific efforts and findings in ocular drug delivery.
- Analysis of conventional and advanced drug delivery systems for ocular application.
- Discussion of emerging nanotechnology applications in ophthalmology.
Main Results:
- Nanoparticulate systems including microemulsions, nanosuspensions, nanoparticles, liposomes, niosomes, dendrimers, and cyclodextrins show promise for enhanced ocular drug delivery.
- These systems can overcome biological barriers, improving drug bioavailability and therapeutic outcomes.
- Nanodiagnostics, nanoimaging, and nanomedicine represent future frontiers for ocular therapy.
Conclusions:
- Nanoparticulate systems are crucial for overcoming ocular drug delivery challenges.
- Advancements in nanotechnology offer novel strategies for diagnosing and treating eye diseases.
- Further research into nanotechnology integration is essential for revolutionizing ocular therapeutics.
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