Pharmacy Faculty at Al-Zahraa University for Women held a scientific workshop entitled “The Application of Hydrogels in Ocular Drugs”, presented by Asst. Lect. Nafisa Ghorban Ali. The workshop took place in one of the Faculty’s halls.
The workshop highlighted that the eye, as a complex and vital organ, was central to human sensory perception.
However, it was, as explained by the presenter, susceptible to various diseases such as conjunctivitis, retinitis, and uveitis, which could significantly impair vision. Moreover, one of the key challenges faced by pharmaceutical scientists as underscored by Ms. Ali, was delivering drugs effectively to the eye, as its unique anatomical structure created barriers to targeted drug delivery.
The lecturer managed to shed light on the four main drug delivery methods for ocular applications: intraocular injections, implanted devices, topical applications, and medical devices. Furthermore, she underscored that among those topical drug delivery methods, such as eye drops or ointments, was considered the most practical and accessible for patients.
Besides, the workshop emphasized a significant limitation of topical drug delivery: the short retention time of the medication within the eye.
To enhance the efficacy of ocular drugs, it was crucial, according to the presenter, to extend the residence time of the medication in the eye.
Hydrogels, also known as hydrophilic gels, offered a promising solution by increasing drug retention time and, consequently, improving therapeutic outcomes while minimizing side effects.
It is noteworthy that the lecture also addressed the current applications of hydrogels in ocular drug delivery. Those include drug delivery systems, the production of contact lenses, medical implants, and artificial eyes. The workshop was attended by a slew of faculty members, as it primarily targeted academic staff. The session concluded with an engaging discussion among participants.
