Aqueous and vitreous concentration of mitomycin C by topical administration after glaucoma filtration surgery in

D Sarraf1, R D Eezzuduemhoi, Q Cheng

  • 1Jules Stein Eye Institute, UCLA School of Medicine 90024-7004.

Ophthalmology
|October 1, 1993
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Postoperative topical mitomycin (MMC) delivery via drops or sponges successfully reached rabbit aqueous humor. Vitreous concentrations remained below toxic levels, suggesting potential for alternative glaucoma surgery applications.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pharmacokinetics
  • Drug Delivery

Background:

  • Mitomycin (MMC) is used in glaucoma surgery.
  • Understanding its pharmacokinetic profile after topical administration is crucial for optimizing efficacy and safety.
  • Investigating postoperative topical delivery offers an alternative to intraoperative methods.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the aqueous and vitreous pharmacokinetics of mitomycin after postoperative topical administration in rabbits.
  • To compare the efficacy of topical drops versus cellulose sponge delivery of mitomycin.
  • To assess the safety of postoperative topical mitomycin by evaluating vitreous concentrations.

Main Methods:

  • Filtration surgery was performed in rabbits.
  • Mitomycin solution (0.4 mg/ml) was applied topically via drops or cellulose sponge on postoperative day 1.
  • Aqueous and vitreous humor samples were collected at various time points (0.25 to 4 hours) post-administration.
  • Pharmacokinetic parameters were analyzed for both delivery methods.

Main Results:

  • Peak aqueous mitomycin concentrations were observed within 1-2 hours post-administration.
  • Sponge application resulted in higher peak aqueous concentrations (0.10 +/- 0.03 microgram/ml in surgical eyes) compared to topical drops (0.03 +/- 0.02 microgram/ml in surgical eyes).
  • Vitreous mitomycin levels remained below the known threshold for retinal toxicity throughout the study period.

Conclusions:

  • Postoperative topical mitomycin administration effectively delivers the drug into the aqueous humor in rabbits.
  • Both topical drops and sponge application are viable methods, with sponges potentially offering higher aqueous concentrations.
  • These findings support exploring alternative topical mitomycin application methods for enhanced drug delivery across the conjunctiva.

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