Table 1 Advantages of nanotechnology for ocular drug delivery
From: Next-generation nanomaterials: advancing ocular anti-inflammatory drug therapy
Advantages | Descriptions |
|---|---|
Enhanced drug bioavailability | Nanoparticles used in ocular drug delivery can increase drug solubility, stability, and permeability, leading to improved bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy |
Prolonged drug release | Nanocarriers can be designed to release drugs in a sustained and controlled manner, prolonging the therapeutic effect and reducing the need for frequent administration |
Targeted delivery | Nanoparticles can be surface-functionalized with ligands that specifically bind to ocular tissues, allowing targeted drug delivery to the desired site, such as the cornea, conjunctiva, or retina. This minimizes systemic exposure and reduces side effects |
Protection of drugs | Nanocarriers provide protection to drugs from degradation by enzymes and other physiological factors present in the ocular environment, ensuring drug stability and prolonged shelf life |
Improved ocular penetration | Nanoparticles can enhance drug penetration across ocular barriers, such as the cornea and blood-retinal barrier, enabling drugs to reach the target tissues more effectively |
Reduced frequency of administration | The prolonged release and enhanced bioavailability offered by nanotechnology allow for reduced dosing frequency, improving patient compliance and convenience |
Minimized toxicity | Nanoparticles can encapsulate drugs, reducing their toxicity and enhancing their safety profile. Moreover, targeted delivery minimizes systemic exposure, further reducing the potential for systemic side effects |
Non-invasive delivery | Nanotechnology-based ocular drug delivery systems offer non-invasive administration routes, such as eye drops or ophthalmic gels, avoiding the need for injections or invasive procedures |
Combination therapy | Nanotechnology enables the co-delivery of multiple drugs or therapeutic agents within a single nanocarrier, allowing for combination therapy to address complex ocular diseases or conditions |
Potential for personalized medicine | Nanoparticles can be customized with specific drug formulations, release profiles, and targeting ligands, enabling personalized treatment approaches tailored to individual patient needs |