In vivo performance of [³H]dexamethasone ophthalmic film delivery systems in the rabbit eye

The disposition of dexamethasone in different eye tissues was investigated following the application of an ophthalmic suspension and ocular inerts. The disposition in the corneal tissue, which was rather poor relative to the conjunctiva and iris-ciliary body in the case of the suspensions, was markedly enhanced through application of the drug in a film delivery system. Eudragit and cellulose acetate phthalate-based films enhance the disposition of the drug in the aqueous humor at specific time intervals. It is apparent from the results that ophthalmic film delivery systems may target the drug to the eye tissues in which the drug is otherwise poorly available. Ophthalmic film delivery systems, in general, bring about a considerable increase in extent of drug absorption compared to the suspension dosage form. In the present study they brought about an increase in peak dexamethasone concentration. © 1988.