INTERACTIONS BETWEEN CYCLODEXTRINS AND OPHTHALMIC DRUGS

In this paper the possible applications of cyclodextrins in ophthalmic preparations are reviewed. First, an overview is given of the benefic al effects of cyclodextrins, including an increase in solubility, incr ease in stability, and avoidance of incompatibilities. Then the intera ction of cyclodextrin with a number of ophthalmic drugs, including ant ibiotics, sulfonamides, preservatives, steroids, NSAID and some other compounds, is discussed. It is concluded that cyclodextrins may be use ful adjuvants to increase the solubility and stability of ophthalmic d rugs, but it remains uncertain whether they have a significant positiv e effect upon biovailability.