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Published on: May 31, 2024
Topical Drug Delivery to the Posterior Segment of the Eye
Marina Löscher1, Chiara Seiz1, José Hurst1
1Centre for Ophthalmology Tübingen, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Str. 7, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.
Abstract:
Topical drug delivery to the posterior segment of the eye is a very complex challenge. However, topical delivery is highly desired, to achieve an easy-to-use treatment option for retinal diseases. In this review, we focus on the drug characteristics that are relevant to succeed in this challenge. An overview on the ocular barriers that need to be overcome and some relevant animal models to study ocular pharmacokinetics are given. Furthermore, a summary of substances that were able to reach the posterior segment after eye drop application is provided, as well as an outline of investigated delivery systems to improve ocular drug delivery. Some promising results of substances delivered to the retina suggest that topical treatment of retinal diseases might be possible in the future, which warrants further research.
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