Nanomicelles in Ocular Drug Delivery: Overcoming Barriers and Enhancing Therapeutic Efficacy

This study provides a comprehensive overview of nanomicelle-based drug delivery methods used to treat ocular disorders. A review of current literature was conducted by scanning electronic databases up until December 2024, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Keywords such as "Nanomicelles" and specific ocular conditions including "Glaucoma," "Conjunctivitis," "Cataract," and "Retinopathy" were used to identify relevant material. Original research articles, reviews, and clinical trials were given special attention. Administering drugs to the eye remains one of the most challenging tasks among various drug delivery systems. Delivering drugs to the posterior pole or the delicate anatomical layers of the eye poses a substantial challenge for researchers and pharmacologists. Conventional formulations often exhibit inadequate corneal penetration, poor absorption, or noticeable adverse visual effects. Nanotechnology has greatly facilitated the development of novel therapeutic strategies for ocular disorders. Nanomicelle-based formulations benefit significantly from the nano-delivery platform. Nanomicelles can overcome anatomical barriers and clearance processes. Depending on the polymer used, nanomicelles can be engineered and released to meet specific requirements. They are notable for their small size, low toxicity, ability to improve drug penetration through ocular epithelia with minimal irritation, enhancement of hydrophobic drug solubility, achievement of therapeutic concentrations, and prevention or reduction of drug degradation. This study highlights the use of nanomicellar-based delivery systems in treating ocular diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, cataract, conjunctivitis, keratitis, and retinoblastoma.