Volume 18

April-June 2026

Emerging Trends and Technologies in Ocular Drug Delivery: A Comprehensive Review

Saundarya Sunil Tate, Jameel Ahmed S Mulla

Abstract: 
There are anatomical and physiological challenges in ocular drug delivery, particularly because of the human eye. Poor drug retention and penetration with conventional drug formulations like eye drops and ointments require multiple doses and poor patient adherence. In the last decade, new technologies have revolutionized the field of ocular therapeutics with the development of innovative drug delivery platforms for sustained, targeted and controlled release. This review covers recent developments of nanocarriers, liposomes, dendrimers, microneedles, hydrogels, contact lenses for drug delivery, in situ gels and implantable drug delivery systems for the eye. Discussions also include bioinspired and stimuli-responsive systems in which the release of the product can be customized upon demand, to optimize pharmacokinetic profiles. Furthermore, the article discusses the major regulatory implications, translation issues and future prospects of incorporating nanotechnology, biomaterials and smart drug delivery methods in the field of ophthalmology. The aim of this review is to provide a summary of the state of the art in the field of ocular drug delivery, highlight the trends, and support further research for more efficient, patient-friendly, and clinically translatable drug delivery solutions to the eye.

Keywords: Ocular Drug Delivery, Nanocarriers, Hydrogels, Microneedles, Contact Lenses, Implants, Controlled Release, Bioavailability, Nanotechnology, Smart Drug Delivery, Ophthalmic Therapeutics.

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