Development of Nanofibrous Ocular Insert for Retinal Delivery of Fluocinolone Acetonide

Purpose: Topical formulations are less effective in treating retinal inflammatory diseases due to poor avaliability of drug at target tissues. Nanofibers due to their unique structural features show great promise for drug delivery to retinal segment following topical application. Aim: The aim of the present study was to design preservative free controlled release ocular drug delivery system for improved drug availability at the target site with higher patient compliance. Materials and Methods: The fluocinolone acetonide-loaded PCL nanofibers were prepared by electrospinning technique. Optimized formulation was chosen on the basis of outcome of inclusive in-vitro characterization, SEM, FTIR, XRD, in-vitro release, isotonicity, sterility, and biodegradibility. The relative efficacy of optimized formulation was investigated in rabbits against its marketed counter part. Results: The prepared fibers were sterile, smooth, non-woven and they showed extended drug release behavior. Ocular and plasma kinetics showed therapeutic levels at the target site while minimizing systemic distribution. Conclusions: Preclinical results established that PCL nanofibers serve as a promising drug carrier for retinal segment.