Microparticles based on natural and synthetic polymers for ophthalmic applications

Abstract Sodium salt of carboxymethylcellulose/poly(vinyl alcohol) particles suitable for application in ocular drug administration were prepared by crosslinking with epichlorohydrin in an alkaline medium, in reverse emulsion. The influence of parameters related with the particles elaboration process (ratio between polymer mixture and crosslinking agent, concentration of polymer solution, duration of crosslinking reaction, stirring intensity, etc.) based on their composition, size, and swelling ability was studied. Obtained microparticles fulfill the requirements for biomaterials—they are formed from biocompatible polymers; the acute toxicity value (LD₅₀) is high enough to consider these materials as weakly toxic (hence able to introduce within the organism); they are able to include and release drugs in a controlled way. The in vivo adrenalin ocular delivery from the microparticles was tested on voluntary human patient. The particles showed good adhesion properties without irritation to the patient and proved the capability to treat the ocular congestion. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A:, 2012.