Recent advances in drug delivery systems for treating ocular complications of systemic diseases

Abstract

Purpose of review: To examine recent advances in the development of pharmacological agents and drug delivery systems for the treatment of ocular conditions associated with systemic diseases including diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, uveitis, and HIV-related retinitis.

Recent findings: Corticosteroids, vascular endothelial-derived growth factor antagonists, and anti-inflammatory agents have been investigated for treating ocular conditions associated with systemic diseases. Systemic pharmacotherapy for specifically treating eye diseases is discouraged as side effects may exacerbate preexisting conditions in patients with a debilitating systemic disease. Local therapy with injections into the vitreous has demonstrated varying degrees of efficacy and safety in treating certain ocular diseases; however, its usefulness in some cases can be limited by a short duration of action and the need for frequent readministration. Efforts have been underway to develop more effective drug delivery systems, such as sustained-release drug implants, to overcome these limitations.

Summary: Pharmacological agents are currently under investigation, and some have been FDA approved, for the treatment of ocular conditions associated with systemic disease. Advances in the development of drug delivery systems for these agents are expected to further improve the efficacy and safety of pharmacotherapy for ocular diseases in the future.