Ophthalmic Device With Concentration Gradient For Sustained Drug Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for delivering active agents to the eye, such as topical application and ocular inserts, face inefficiencies like rapid drug loss and systemic side effects, and existing devices often result in initial 'burst' releases rather than controlled, sustained delivery.
Innovation Solution
The development of ophthalmic devices with reservoirs containing active agent-containing polymeric materials, featuring continuous or discontinuous concentration gradients, which allow for controlled release of active agents through diffusion, reducing initial burst effects and maintaining therapeutic levels over time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If topical eye drops are used to deliver active agents, then the eye can be treated with minimal invasive procedures, but a substantial portion of the drug is lost due to overflow and drainage, reducing treatment efficacy
Solution Approach 1:
The punctal plug serves as an intermediary device inserted into the lacrimal punctum to intercept and redirect tear fluid containing the active agent, preventing its loss through drainage while maintaining the non-invasive topical administration route
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes the eye's own tear production mechanism to deliver the active agent, converting the harmful drainage effect into a beneficial self-delivery system where tears naturally carry the drug to the treatment site
2Duration of action of moving object
If conventional ocular inserts are used to deliver active agents, then sustained release is achieved, but an initial large bolus release occurs upon insertion rather than linear delivery over time
Solution Approach 1:
The reservoir is designed with varying porosity in different regions, with the distal end having higher porosity for faster initial release and the proximal end having lower porosity for slower sustained release, creating a spatial gradient that controls the release profile
Solution Approach 2:
The device is pre-loaded with active agent in a controlled concentration gradient within the polymeric material before insertion, establishing the release profile in advance to prevent burst release and ensure linear delivery over time
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
These devices enable a controlled, sustained release of active agents, minimizing waste and systemic side effects, while maintaining effective drug concentrations, thus improving treatment efficacy and patient comfort.
Implementation Method 1
the active agent is present in a continuous or discontinuous concentration gradient within the active agent-containing polymeric material
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention provides devices useful for the delivery of active agents to the eye in a controlled manner. In the devices of the invention, the active agent is present within the device in a continuous or discontinuous concentration gradient.