INTERACTIONS BETWEEN CYCLODEXTRINS AND OPHTHALMIC DRUGS

In this paper the possible applications of cyclodextrins in ophthalmic preparations are reviewed. First, an overview is given of the benefical effects of cyclodextrins, including an increase in solubility, increase in stability, and avoidance of incompatibilities. Then the interaction of cyclodextrin with a number of ophthalmic drugs, including antibiotics, sulfonamides, preservatives, steroids, NSAID and some other compounds, is discussed. It is concluded that cyclodextrins may be useful adjuvants to increase the solubility and stability of ophthalmic drugs, but it remains uncertain whether they have a significant positive effect upon biovailability.