Journal of Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology
Open Access
ISSN: 2155-9570
ISSN: 2155-9570
Joseph B Ciolino
Posters-Accepted Abstracts: J Clin Exp Ophthalmol
We have developed a drug-eluting contact lens that overcomes the historical challenge of controlled drug delivery from a contact lens. Acting as a platform for ocular drug delivery, the contact lens has demonstrated the ability to safely release therapeutic quantities of a range of molecules, including glaucoma drugs, steroids, and antibiotics for weeks at a time. In animal models, a latanoprost-eluting contact lens maintained therapeutic drug concentrations in the aqueous humor for one month. A dexamethasone-eluting contact lens was able to provide drug levels to the eye equivalent to an intensive drop regimen for one week. One of the advantages of this design is that the contact lens retains the visual performance that one would expect from a commercial contact lens. Compared to drops, a drug-eluting contact lens could provide improved efficacy and adherence by facilitating topical administration, reducing dosing frequency, and by minimizing systemic absorption and side effects.