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Use of Rabbit Eyes in Pharmacokinetic Studies of Intraocular Drugs
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Pharmacologic principles behind eye drop dosing: From pharmacokinetics to clinical practice
Luca Lucchino1, Enrico Giuliano2, Ferdinando Giuliano3
1Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; Department of Sense Organs, Sapienza - University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
Survey of Ophthalmology
|March 20, 2026
Summary
Optimizing topical ocular therapy requires understanding pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics (PK/PD). Tailoring drug dosing to individual patient factors and drug properties enhances treatment efficacy for anterior segment diseases.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pharmacology
- Drug Delivery
Background:
- Topical ocular therapy is vital for anterior segment diseases.
- Drug efficacy depends on dosing, pharmacokinetics (PK), and pharmacodynamics (PD).
- Low intraocular drug penetration necessitates optimized dosing strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review how PK/PD principles guide dosing of antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory ocular agents.
- To highlight the under-recognition and inconsistent application of PK/PD in clinical practice.
- To discuss advancements in formulations for improved ocular drug delivery.
Main Methods:
- Integration of experimental and clinical evidence on ocular PK/PD.
- Analysis of PK/PD targets for different antibiotic classes (aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, β-lactams).
- Review of dosing considerations for corticosteroids and immunomodulators.
Main Results:
- Antibiotic dosing should align with PK/PD targets (Cmax/MIC, AUC/MIC, T>MIC).
- Corticosteroid and immunomodulator regimens need controlled dosing for efficacy and safety.
- New formulations (nanocarriers, stimuli-responsive) offer enhanced precision and reduced toxicity.
Conclusions:
- Integrating PK/PD principles provides a rational framework for optimizing topical ocular pharmacotherapy.
- Tailored dosing strategies are essential for maximizing therapeutic outcomes.
- Advances in drug delivery systems hold promise for improved patient adherence and safety.
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