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Development of effective ocular preparations of antifungal agents

Indu Pal Kaur1, Cheena Rana, Harinder Singh

  • 1University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India. indupalkaur@yahoo.com

Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics : the Official Journal of the Association for Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics
|September 16, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Treating eye fungal infections requires rapid diagnosis and effective antifungal drugs. This review explores drug properties, delivery systems like nanoparticles, and strategies to improve ocular antifungal therapy and preserve vision.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Mycology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Ocular mycoses necessitate prompt diagnosis and effective antifungal treatment to preserve vision.
  • Antifungal agents target superficial and internal eye infections, with efficacy dependent on ocular tissue concentration.
  • High molecular mass ( > 500 Da) of some antifungals (e.g., amphotericin B, natamycin, ketoconazole) limits ocular penetration.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the physicochemical, pharmacokinetic, and antifungal activity profiles of key agents for ocular infections.
  • To suggest improved delivery systems for enhanced ocular antifungal therapy.
  • To critically appraise recent advances and offer expert recommendations for better treatment outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of antifungal agents used in ophthalmic mycoses.
  • Analysis of physiochemical and pharmacokinetic properties influencing ocular drug delivery.
  • Evaluation of various drug delivery systems, including liposomes, niosomes, lipid emulsions, nanoparticles, and cyclodextrin complexes.

Main Results:

  • Several antifungal agents possess properties that hinder effective ocular penetration.
  • Advanced delivery systems show promise in improving the concentration and efficacy of antifungals within ocular tissues.
  • Specific delivery strategies are recommended based on the characteristics of individual antifungal agents.

Conclusions:

  • Optimizing antifungal drug delivery is crucial for enhancing treatment effectiveness in ophthalmic mycoses.
  • Nanoparticles and other advanced systems offer potential solutions to overcome penetration barriers.
  • Further research and critical appraisal of therapeutic strategies are needed for improved patient outcomes in treating eye fungal infections.

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