Formulation and Evaluation of Ocusert Idoxuridine

Ophthalmic insert is defined as sterile preparation with solid or semisolid consisting and whose size and shape are especially designed for ophthalmic application. They offer several advantages as increase ocular residence, possibility of releasing drug at a slow constant rate, accurate dosing and increased shelf life with respect to aqueous solutions. Ocular route of drug delivery is one of the most interesting and challenging endeavors facing the pharmaceutical scientist. One of the major barriers of ocular medication is to obtain and maintain a therapeutic level at the site of action for prolonged period of time. Therefore many ophthalmic drug delivery systems are available. These are classified as conventional and non-conventional drug delivery systems. The main purpose of preparing ocular insert is to increase ocular bioavailability of drug. Idoxuridine is an antiviral agent used in treatment of Herpes-keratitis. In present research, an attempt has been made to formulate ocular inserts of idoxuridine using various polymers such as hydroxyl propyl methyl cellulose, polyvinyl alcohol and Eudragit in different concentrations by solvent casting method using dibutylphthalate as plasticizer with aim of achieving controlled release, reduction in frequency of administration and greater therapeutic efficacy. Prepared ocuserts were evaluated for Uniformity of thickness, Uniformity of weight, Surface pH, folding endurance, drug content and In vitro studies.