A review on polymers in ocular drug delivery systems

• Published in: MedComm - Biomaterials and applications Vol. 3; no. 2
• Main Authors: Bisen, Amol C., Biswas, Arpon, Dubey, Ayush, Sanap, Sachin N., Agrawal, Sristi, Yadav, Karan S., Singh, Vaishali, Rawat, Priyanka, Sagar, Sudhanshu, Mugale, Madhav N., Bhatta, Rabi S.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Wiley 01.06.2024
• Subjects: ocular barriers; ocular nanosystems; ophthalmic drug delivery; ophthalmology; polymers; sustained release
• ISSN: 2769-643X; 2769-643X
• DOI: 10.1002/mba2.77

Amid the escalating prevalence of eye diseases and the intricate nature of the eye as a crucial target organ for drug delivery, researchers face significant challenges in developing delivery systems tailored specifically for ocular complications. Addressing the gaps in the current conventional ocular drug delivery system (ODDS) is crucial and this can be achieved by incorporating polymers while designing newer ODDS. This review aims to offer a concise overview of the diverse polymers utilized in the development of ODDS, designed to address various eye conditions and disorders, enhance treatment outcomes, and ensure patient adherence. Introducing the anatomy of the eye and different ocular routes of administration, alongside the barriers encountered, this review presents polymer‐based ODDS, renowned for their unique properties facilitating the engineering of specialized devices for enhanced drug delivery. Further discussions delve into the applications of polymers in ophthalmology. Emphasis is placed on emerging polymer‐based technologies available in the market for treating ocular diseases, underscoring their potential for revolutionizing ocular healthcare. The review also addresses challenges in translating these advancements into clinical practice, while highlighting the versatility of polymers in treating diverse eye diseases and disorders through customizable properties and sustained drug delivery. Polymers play a pivotal role in ocular drug delivery, revolutionizing treatment approaches. These biomaterials enable controlled and sustained drug release at the targeted site, enhancing bioavailability and patient compliance. From nanosized particle‐based formulations to in situ gelation mechanisms, polymers offer improved treatment options for a diversity of ocular diseases (Figure created using Microsoft Designer).