Formulation of in-Situ Gel for the treatment of Glaucoma

Abstract

Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness, primarily due to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Traditional eye drops suffer from poor bioavailability and require frequent administration, affecting patient compliance. In situ gel formulations offer an innovative solution by undergoing a sol-to-gel transition upon instillation, allowing for prolonged ocular residence time and sustained drug release. This review explores various in situ gel formulations for glaucoma treatment, highlighting key polymers such as Poloxamer 407, Carbopol, and Sodium Alginate. Mechanisms of gelation, formulation strategies, and recent advancements in drug delivery are discussed. In situ gels enhance therapeutic efficacy, minimize systemic side effects, and improve patient adherence, making them a promising alternative to conventional eye drops. However, challenges such as formulation stability, mechanical strength, and regulatory considerations remain. To guarantee the efficacy and safety of these formulations in the long-term therapy of glaucoma, future studies should focus on improving polymer compositions and performing comprehensive clinical trials.