Objective:

To explore the potential of soft contact lenses (CLs) as drug delivery systems for ocular treatments.

Approach:

Key Findings:

• Soft CLs can enhance drug bioavailability and reduce dosing frequency.
• Drug-eluting CLs can improve management of conditions like glaucoma, dry eye disease, and allergic conjunctivitis.
• Recent FDA approval of eta filcon A CLs with ketotifen demonstrates practical application.

Interpretation:

Soft CLs represent a promising advancement in ocular drug delivery, potentially transforming treatment approaches for chronic eye diseases.

Limitations:

• Challenges in enhancing comfort and stability of CLs.
• Need for controlled release without impairing vision.
• Manufacturing scalability and long-term safety concerns.

Conclusion:

Despite existing challenges, advancements in biomaterials and nanotechnology suggest a transformative future for soft CLs in ocular care.

Sources:

• Järvinen et al., 1995
• Mobaraki et al., 2020
• Gao et al., 2024
• Lovrec-Krstic et al., 2023
• Xu et al., 2011
• Pall et al., 2019
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