Ocular penetration enhancers mechanisms

Even though we are currently far from having penetration enhancers that fulfill all or most of the above requirements, several classes of ocular absorption enhancers, however, are being evaluated for their suitability under the conditions of use by various groups. This chapter aims to discuss various classes of ocular absorption enhancers, along with the basic modes of drug transport and the mechanism by which these penetration enhancers act. Further, new categories of penetration enhancers, which have been reported more recently, are also included. 

Although penetration enhancers promise superior therapeutic efficacy, this approach should be introduced for clinical use only after considering the balance of risks and benefits. Furthermore, information on the different mechanisms of drug penetration, ocular metabolism, side effects, and the influence of ocular diseases on the specific drug absorption-enhancement techniques is required before the use of any enhancer. 

Rozier, A., Grove, J., Mazuel, C. and Plazonnet B., 1989, Gelrite solutions Novel ophthalmic vehicles that enhance ocular drug penetration. Proc. Interntl Symp. Control Rel Bioacti. Mater., 16 109 Park, H. and Robinson, J.R., 1987. Mechanisms of mucoadhesion of poly(acrylic acid) hydrogel. 

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