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[Biodegradable controlled-release 5-FU implant in the surgery for glaucoma. Experimental study]
P Hostyn1, F Villain, N Malek-Chehire
1Ophthalmic Biophysics Center, University of Miami, School of Medicine, Florid
Journal Francais D'Ophtalmologie
|January 1, 1996
Summary
A new biodegradable implant offers sustained release of 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) for glaucoma treatment, overcoming the need for frequent injections. This novel drug delivery system shows promise for improved glaucoma management.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biomaterials Science
- Pharmacology
Context:
- Glaucoma filtering surgery requires sustained drug levels for efficacy.
- Current treatment involves repeated daily injections of 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU).
- This poses challenges for patient compliance and consistent therapeutic outcomes.
Purpose:
- To design and evaluate a biodegradable implant for sustained 5-FU release.
- To assess the in vitro and in vivo pharmacokinetics and biocompatibility of the implant.
- To provide a novel drug delivery system for glaucoma treatment.
Summary:
- A biodegradable implant (0.79 mm diameter, 6 mm long) containing 0.66 mg of 5-FU was developed.
- Subconjunctival insertion was achieved via a custom instrument.
- The implant demonstrated sustained drug release (1.20 µg/hr for >18 days) and complete biodegradation (<86 days) in rabbit models with no adverse reactions.
Impact:
- The implant offers a promising alternative to repeated injections for glaucoma management.
- It facilitates sustained drug delivery, potentially improving surgical outcomes.
- Further studies in cats are ongoing to confirm efficacy in glaucoma treatment.