Abstract
Purpose: This study developed and evaluated flurbiprofen-loaded electrospun ocular inserts fabricated from the polycaprolactone (PCL). The primary objective was to design a prolonged release drug delivery system, specifically using FB-PCL-NFIs, as a novel alternative to existing ocular dosage forms for managing diverse ocular disease conditions viz. conjunctivitis, blepharitis, uveitis, scleritis, or dry eye syndrome. Methods: The FB-PCL-NFIs were fabricated using monoaxial electrospinning technique and primarily characterized for physicochemical properties, contact angle measurements, diffusion, permeation, tensile strength, and stability analyses. The ocular irritancy of the FB-PCL-NFIs was investigated using isotonicity testing and in ovo Hen’s Egg Test-Chorioallantoic Membrane (HET-CAM) assay. Results: The prepared FB-PCL-NFIs benefited from the enhanced ocular retention, sustained FB release, enhanced permeation, and improved patient compliance. The in vivo studies confirmed no noticeable signs of irritation suggesting biocompatibility, tolerability, and suitability of the prepared FB-PCL-NFIs for ocular administration. The in vivo ocular pharmacokinetic studies performed in adult male New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits confirmed the prolonged ocular residence of FB-PCL-NFIs compared to Ocuflur® IP. Conclusion: The findings support further evaluation of the inserts for prolonged ocular delivery of FB-PCL-NFIs as promising therapy for ocular irritation associated with various ocular disease.