Polymeric Micelles in Ocular Drug Delivery: Rationale, Strategies and Challenges

I. Pepić, J. Lovrić and J. Filipović-Grčić

Abstract
Polymeric micelles that can deliver drug to intended sites of the eye have attracted much scientific attention recently. The aim here is to review the aqueous-based formulation of drug loaded polymeric micelles that hold significant promise for ophthalmic drug delivery. These innovative nanosystems can provide the biopharmaceutical advantages of higher permeation and enhancement of residence time at ocular surface for better drug absorption through ocular barriers. Mucoadhesive properties of biopolymers forming micelle enhance their contact time and minimize their elimination from the absorbing surface, consequently increasing the bioavailability of the drug. Their physicochemical characteristics are also important with respect to the industrial production and patient compliance. Drug loaded polymeric micelles can be fabricated by simple and cost effective techniques with improved physical stability which fulfils the requirements for industrial acceptance. Innovative polymeric micelle formulations allow their easy application in the form of eye drops without blurring of vision and discomfort, thus achieving patient compliance requirements.

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Keywords
Polymeric micelles, ocular barriers, ocular delivery, ocular bioavailability, size, surface charge, in vitro stability, eye biofate, ocular permeability, safety