Advancements in Ocular Drug Delivery: Exploring the Potential of Oleogel-Based Systems

Abstract

Ocular drug delivery systems are crucial for the effective treatment of various ocular diseases. However, the limited bioavailability and poor penetration of drugs into ocular tissues pose significant challenges. In recent years, oleogel-based systems have emerged as a promising approach to enhance drug delivery to the eye. Oleogels are unique gels composed primarily of a liquid component and an added gelator, resulting in the formation of a stabilized three-dimensional matrix. These gels offer several advantages, including cost-effectiveness, biocompatibility, extended shelf life, resistance to microbial contamination, and thermoreversibility. Additionally, oleogels exhibit non-Newtonian behavior, displaying shear thinning properties that make them ideal for controlled release formulations in ophthalmic applications, both for the front and back of the eye. The treatment of diseases in the posterior segment of the eye, such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma, presents challenges due to barriers that hinder drug delivery to the back of the eye. Oleogels, particularly vegetable oil-based oleogels, have shown promise as potential vehicles for targeted delivery of hydrophobic or hydrophilic drugs. The applications of oleogels span various fields, including chemistry, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, biotechnology, and food technology. In pharmacology, oleogels are utilized as drug and vaccine delivery platforms for active ingredients through diverse routes such as transdermal, oral, and parenteral administration. This comprehensive review paper aims to provide an in-depth overview of the utilization of oleogels in ocular drug delivery systems. It discusses the formulation aspects, advantages, and challenges associated with oleogel-based systems, shedding light on their potential to revolutionize ocular drug delivery. The paper delves into the various strategies employed to optimize drug release and enhance ocular bioavailability using oleogels. It explores how oleogels can improve drug solubility, prolong drug release, and enhance drug permeation across ocular barriers. The influence of different oleogel components, such as oils, gelling agents, and additives, on the performance of ocular drug delivery systems is thoroughly examined. Furthermore, the review paper discusses the compatibility of oleogels with different drug classes, including hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs. It also explores the in vitro and in vivo evaluation methods used to assess the efficacy and safety of oleogel-based ocular drug delivery systems, providing valuable insights into their performance. The paper goes beyond the basics and highlights recent advancements and future prospects in the field of oleogel-based ocular drug delivery. It explores the incorporation of nanotechnology and the development of stimuli-responsive oleogels, showcasing the potential for further innovation and improvement. Overall, this review paper serves as a comprehensive resource for researchers, clinicians, and pharmaceutical scientists interested in developing innovative and effective ocular drug delivery strategies. By providing a detailed analysis of oleogel-based systems, it aims to inspire further research and development in this promising field, ultimately leading to improved treatments for ocular diseases.