Question

2. Discuss the merits and problems involved in making an ophthalmic solution isotonic (Consider sterility in your discussion).

Answer 1

Ophth88almic preparations are specialized dosage forms designed be inserted on to the external surface of the eye,administered ,or adjacent to eye used in conjunction with an ophthalmic device.Both ophthalmic preparations and parenteral dosage forms are similar as they both require sterility,and consideration should be given in osmotic pressure,preservation,tissue compatability,avoidance of pyrogens in intraocular dosage forms,particulate matter and suitable packaging. The solution should be isotonic with lacrimal fluids eg Dextrose.The three things which need to be looked at when making ophthalmic dosage forms are sterility,aseptic technique and pyrogens. The advantages are they are sterile and free from foreign particles,and all drug/excipients are completely in solution so the dosage form is uniform.Disadvantages are they are relatively brief contact time between the drug and absorbing surface.