A Dual Antibiotic-Steroid Drug-Eluting Contact Lens for Treatment of Eye Injuries That Can Be Used in an Austere Environment or Prolonged Field Care Setting
Abstract
Objective: The goals of the proposal are to perform preclinical testing for a dual steroid-antibiotic drug-eluting contact lens (MXF-DEX TCL). Background: Steroid eye drops are given for a variety of ocular conditions to reduce inflammation. They are often used in conjunction with antibiotic eye drops to either treat or prevent infection after trauma or surgery. In many cases, eye drops must be given multiple times a day, which can be difficult to adhere to. In addition, eye drops can burn and sting. We have developed drug-eluting contact lenses that can deliver two drugs commonly used together, an antibiotic and a steroid, through continuous wear of a therapeutic contact lens (TCL). Research Plan: We will test the TCL s characteristics to evaluate for any safety or comfort issues, comparing the results to a commercial contact lens. We will then test the TCL in preclinical models to ensure the TCL is safe and effective. Research Impact: Topical steroids and antibiotics are an important part of ophthalmic therapy and are used to control ocular inflammation, prevent vision loss, speed recovery, and limit lost productivity following ocular surgery or trauma. TCLs could be used to treat or prevent ocular inflammation following eye surgery, which may be required following combat-related trauma or to improve Soldier combat readiness. Military Benefit: A TCL could help to prevent the loss of vision after eye trauma. From 2000 to 2010 there were over 186,000 eye injuries to members of the U.S. Armed Forces. According to Department of Veterans Affairs data, eye trauma accounted for 15% of all battlefield injury and was the fourth most common injury during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. A TCL could also help speed recovery after eye surgery. Each year approximately 40,000 corneal refractive procedures (e.g., LASIK) are performed on active military personnel and 50,000 cataract procedures are performed on Veterans. If this project is successful, Soldiers, Veterans, and civilians will have a completely new treatment option for treating blinding eye diseases.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Dec 05, 2021
- Source ID
- W81XWH2110959
Entities
People
- Joseph B Ciolino
Organizations
- Schepens Eye Research Institute
- United States Army