Design and Evaluation of Soluble Ocular Insert For Controlled Release of Chloramphenicol

Soluble ocular inserts of chloramphenicol were prepared with the aim of achieving once a day administration. Drug reservoir was prepared using hydrophilic polymer and rate-controlling hydrophobic polymer; Eudragit L100, Eudragit S100, Eudragit RL100. All the formulations indicated no interaction between drug and polymer in FTIR studies. The Inserts were evaluated for the several parameters, viscosity, drug–polymer interaction, in vitro drug release, sterility testing. They were also evaluated for % moisture loss, % moisture uptake,thickness, and tensile strength. Ophthalmic inserts provide that prolonged and sustained drug release. Ocular inserts prepared were smooth and passed all the evaluation tests performed. Mechanical properties and in vitro drug release were dependent on film composition. The release profile of all the formulations showed a steady, controlled drug release. Ocular inserts formulated also passed the test for sterility. In vitro studies demonstrated that P5 insert can ensure a sustained drug release on the ocular surface for a prolonged over 20 hours’ time period. Also, reduction in frequency of administration, may improve the patient compliance.