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Effects of commercial ophthalmic drugs on rabbit corneal epithelium. A scanning electron-microscopic study
Abstract:
Surface changes on rabbit cornea were studied by scanning electron-microscopy after instillation of commercial corticosteroid and antibiotic collyria extensively used in ophthalmic practice. All the collyria caused loss of surface microvilli and cell damage. The collyrium containing dexamethasone, neomycin, and benzalkonium chloride caused less damage than similar collyrium with polymyxin, but without dexamethasone. On the other hand the collyrium containing dexamethasone and neomycin was still less damaging than similar collyrium with benzalkonium chloride as preservative. Chloramphenicol with dexamethasone caused damage similar to collyria containing dexamethasone, neomycin, polymyxine B sulphate, and benzalkonium chloride.
Insights
Common eye drops containing corticosteroids and antibiotics can damage rabbit corneas, causing loss of microvilli and cell damage. Formulations with dexamethasone and neomycin showed less toxicity compared to others.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Science
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Topical ophthalmic medications, including corticosteroid and antibiotic collyria, are widely used in clinical practice.
- Understanding the potential side effects of these widely used medications on ocular surface is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the surface changes on rabbit corneas induced by commonly used corticosteroid and antibiotic eye drops.
- To compare the relative toxicity of different collyria formulations on corneal surface epithelium.
Main Methods:
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to examine corneal surface morphology.
- Rabbit corneas were treated with various commercial corticosteroid and antibiotic collyria.
Main Results:
- All tested collyria induced significant corneal surface alterations, including loss of microvilli and cellular damage.
- A collyrium containing dexamethasone, neomycin, and benzalkonium chloride demonstrated less corneal damage compared to one with polymyxin.
- Formulations with dexamethasone and neomycin were less damaging than those containing benzalkonium chloride as a preservative.
- Chloramphenicol combined with dexamethasone showed damage comparable to combinations of dexamethasone, neomycin, polymyxin B sulfate, and benzalkonium chloride.
Conclusions:
- Commercial corticosteroid and antibiotic eye drops can cause significant corneal surface damage.
- Formulation components, including specific antibiotics and preservatives like benzalkonium chloride, influence the degree of ocular surface toxicity.