Ophthalmologists and drug delivery scientists face considerable challenges
in the realm of ocular drug delivery, primarily attributable to the intricate structural and
barrier complexities inherent in the eye. The presence of various barriers, including the
multilayered cornea, sclera, conjunctival blood flow, and tear dilution, imposes
limitations on the efficacy of drug delivery, affecting both the anterior and posterior
segments of the eye. To overcome these challenges, researchers have explored diverse
delivery systems to enhance drug delivery and treatment outcomes. Among the
conventional ocular drug delivery systems, the ophthalmic solution or eye drop stands
out as a widely utilized and consumer-preferred option. Existing market formulations
include emulsions, suspensions, and ointments. Concurrently, scientists have been
investigating innovative formulations such as liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles,
nanostructure lipid carriers, nanoparticles, hydrogel, and contact Lenses as potential
future treatments, offering advancements in ocular drug delivery and serving as
alternatives to traditional delivery methods.
This book chapter aims to provide a comprehensive summary of both conventional and
novel topical formulations for ocular drug delivery. By examining the current
landscape of ocular drug delivery systems, this chapter seeks to contribute valuable
insights into the ongoing efforts to improve treatment efficacy and patient outcomes in
the challenging domain of ocular therapeutics.
Keywords: Bioavailability, Conventional drug delivery, Nanotechnology, Novel approaches, Ocular drug delivery.