A drug-eluting contact lens to treat glaucoma

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the uptake and release of a novel antibiotic-steroid solution from three commercial contact lenses. Method:A0.3%ciprofloxacin(CF)and0.1%dexamethasone23phosphate (DXP) solution was prepared in acetate buffer using cyclodextrins to prevent precipitation. Concentrations of both drugs were simultaneously determined using a combination of fluorescence spectrophotometry and UV absorbance. Three commercially available contact lenses, balafilcon A, etafilcon A and lotrafilcon B were placed in 2mL of the CF-DXP solution and soaked at room temperature for 24hours. The lenses were then removed and placed in 2mL of phosphate buffered saline, and the release of CF and DXP into solution was monitored over 24hours. Results: All lens types were able to release significant amounts of CF and DXP (p 0.05). The absolute amount of CF and DXP being released was less than when the species were loaded into the lenses individually compared to previous studies, suggesting a possible interaction effect. The majority of the drug was released within the first three hours, suggesting that specifically tailored and designed lenses are needed if these drug delivery lenses are to be useful. Conclusions: Antibiotic steroid combination drops are one of the most commonly prescribed agents in the ophthalmic industry, thus theyareanatural target for those interested indevelopingcontact lens drug delivery devices. Further study is required to tailor the release rates and amounts to be clinically relevant.