Topical ketorolac tromethamine 0.5% ophthalmic solution in ocular inflammation after cataract surgery

Steroids and/or Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs as Postoperative Treatment after Trabeculectomy-12-Month Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial

This prospective randomized controlled trial aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of topical preservative-free diclofenac (DICLO) to dexamethasone (DEX) eyedrops, and their combination (DEX+DICLO) after trabeculectomy. Sixty-nine patients with medically uncontrolled glaucoma were randomized to receive topical postoperative treatment with DICLO (n = 23), DEX (n = 23), or a combination of DEX and DICLO (n = 23). The primary outcome was the intraocular pressure (IOP) 12 months postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included surgical success, failure, visual field, and visual acuity from baseline to 12 months postoperatively. IOP reached the lowest point one day after trabeculectomy. At 12 months, IOP was 10.0 mmHg (95% CI, 8.4-11.6 mmHg) for DICLO, 10.9 mmHg (95% CI, 9.4-12.3 mmHg) for DEX, and 11.2 mmHg (95% CI, 9.1-13.3 mmHg) for DEX+DICLO. There were no significant differences in IOP, surgical success, failure, visual field, or visual acuity between the DICLO, DEX, or DEX+DICLO groups. We found that topical diclofenac was not statistically different from topical dexamethasone in controlling IOP 12 months after trabeculectomy. Combining diclofenac and dexamethasone offered no added IOP control compared to dexamethasone alone.

Phacogoniotomy versus phacotrabeculectomy for advanced primary angle-closure glaucoma with cataract: A randomized non-inferiority trial

PURPOSE

To investigate the effectiveness and safety of phacogoniotomy versus phacotrabeculectomy (PVP) among patients with advanced primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) and cataracts.

DESIGN

Multicenter, randomized controlled, non-inferiority trial.

METHODS

A total of 124 patients (124 eyes) with advanced PACG and cataracts were enrolled, with 65 in the phacogoniotomy group and 59 in the phacotrabeculectomy group. Patients were followed up for 12 months with standardized evaluations. The primary outcome was the reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP) from baseline to 12 months postoperatively, of which a non-inferiority margin of 4 mmHg was evaluated. Secondary outcomes included the cumulative surgical success rate, postoperative complications, and changes in the number of glaucoma medications.

RESULTS

After 12 months, phacogoniotomy demonstrated non-inferiority to phacotrabeculectomy in terms of IOP reduction, with mean IOP reductions of - 26.1 mmHg and - 25.7 mmHg (P = 0.383), respectively, from baseline values of around 40 mmHg. Both groups experienced a significant reduction in the mean number of medications used postoperatively (P < 0.001). The cumulative success rate was comparable between the groups (P = 0.890). However, phacogoniotomy had a lower rate of postoperative complications and interventions (12.3% and 4.6%) compared to phacotrabeculectomy (23.7% and 20.3% respectively). The phacogoniotomy group reported shorter surgery time (22.1 ± 6.5 vs. 38.8 ± 11.1 min; P = 0.030) and higher quality of life (EQ-5D-5 L) improvement at 12 months (7.0 ± 11.5 vs. 3.0 ± 12.9, P = 0.010) than the phacotrabeculectomy group.

CONCLUSIONS

Phacogoniotomy was non-inferior to phacotrabeculectomy in terms of IOP reduction for advanced PACG and cataracts. Additionally, phacogoniotomy provided a shorter surgical time, lower postoperative complication rate, fewer postoperative interventions, and better postoperative quality of life.

Topical Delivery of Ketorolac Tromethamine via Cataplasm for Inflammatory Pain Therapy

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been widely used in the treatment of inflammatory pain, such as in osteoarthritis. Ketorolac tromethamine is considered to be an NSAID with strong anti-inflammatory and analgesic potency, however, traditional applications, such as oral administration and injections, often induce high systemic exposure, leading to adverse events such as gastric ulceration and bleeding. To address this key limitation, herein we designed and fabricated a topical delivery system for ketorolac tromethamine via cataplasm, which is based on a three-dimensional mesh structure formed by the cross-linking of dihydroxyaluminum aminoacetate (DAAA) and sodium polyacrylate. The viscoelasticity of the cataplasm was characterized by rheological methods and exhibited a "gel-like" elastic property. The release behavior showed a Higuchi model characteristic with a dose dependence. To enhance the skin permeation, permeation enhancers were added and screened utilizing ex vivo pig skin, in which 1,2-propanediol was found to have the optimal permeation-promoting effect. The cataplasm was further applied to a rat carrageenan-induced inflammatory pain model, which showed comparable anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects with oral administration. Finally, the biosafety of the cataplasm was tested in healthy human volunteers, and reduced side effects were achieved as compared to the tablet formulation, which can be ascribed to less systemic drug exposure and lower blood drug concentrations. Therefore, the constructed cataplasm can reduce the risk of adverse events while maintaining efficacy, thus serving as a better alternative for the treatment of inflammatory pain, including osteoarthritis.

Incidence of unplanned visits after cataract surgery in two large cohorts with different anti-inflammatory treatment protocols

PURPOSE

To compare incidences and reasons for unplanned extra visits after phacoemulsification surgery in two unselected clinical populations with different postoperative treatment protocols.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

We reviewed medical records of 1000 patients that underwent cataract surgery at two adjacent clinics in Sweden. At each clinic, 500 consecutive surgeries were included. Preoperatively recorded comorbidities were registered. One clinic used a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) in combination with steroids as postoperative treatment, the other used steroids in monotherapy. Main outcome was the number of patients that returned within 6 months after surgery for at least one unplanned visit. Reasons for unplanned visits were secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

Among patients receiving combined treatment 84 cases (16.8%) returned for at least 1 extra visit, compared with 63 cases (12.6%) in the group treated with steroids only (RR = 1.33 [95% CI 0.99-1.80, p = 0.061]). No significant differences were found regarding any underlying reasons for the visits, including cystoid macular oedema (CME). We found increased risks for CME in patients with diabetes mellitus (RR = 3.83 [95% CI 1.18-12.41, p = 0.016]) and patients with epiretinal membrane (ERM) (RR = 10.76 [95% CI 3.14-36.89, p < 0.0001]).

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative anti-inflammatory treatment with NSAID in combination with steroids did not reduce need for unplanned postoperative visits or incidence of visually disturbing CME after cataract surgery compared with steroids alone. Patient groups with elevated risks for CME are of interest in future research regarding benefits and optimal use of NSAID treatment after cataract surgery.

Early Inflammation Control After Trabeculectomy by Steroid and Non-steroidal Eye Drops: A Randomized Controlled Trial

INTRODUCTION

To compare the effect of three different anti-inflammatory regimens consisting of preservative-free dexamethasone (DEX), diclofenac (DICLO) eye drops, and their combination (DEX + DICLO) following trabeculectomy on early postoperative inflammation.

METHODS

A prospective randomized controlled trial. Sixty-nine patients undergoing trabeculectomy were randomized to receive either postoperative treatment with topical DEX (n = 23), topical DICLO (n = 23), or a combination of topical DEX and topical DICLO (n = 23) after trabeculectomy. The primary outcome was the anterior chamber flare measurement in the first 3 months postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included intraocular pressure, central corneal thickness, conjunctival injection, and number of cells in the anterior chamber from baseline to 3 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

Anterior chamber flare reached a maximum 1 day after trabeculectomy with an increase of 55% (95% CI 37-73%) for DEX, 64% (95% CI 47-82%) for DICLO, and 57% (95% CI 39-75%) for DEX + DICLO and returned to near pre-operative values 6 weeks after surgery. There were no significant differences in anterior chamber flare [effect size for DICLO: 0.16 (95% CI - 4.3 to 4.6), effect size for DEX + DICLO: 0.09 (95% CI - 4.1 to 4.3)], intraocular pressure, central corneal thickness, conjunctival injection, or number of cells in the anterior chamber between DEX, DICLO, or DEX + DICLO groups.

CONCLUSION

We found that topical diclofenac was not statistically different from topical dexamethasone in controlling early postoperative inflammation after trabeculectomy, while combining diclofenac and dexamethasone offered no added anti-inflammatory control compared to dexamethasone alone.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov (NCT04054830).

Parametric Drug Release Optimization of Anti-Inflammatory Drugs by Gold Nanoparticles for Topically Applied Ocular Therapy

Eye drops represent 90% of all currently used ophthalmic treatments. Only 0.02% of therapeutic molecules contained in eye drops reach the eye anterior chamber despite their high concentration. The tear film efficiently protects the cornea, reducing access to the target. Thereby, the increase in the drug bioavailability and efficiency must come from the mucoadhesion optimization of the drug delivery system. The gold nanoparticles, used as a drug delivery system in this study, already showcased ultrastable and mucoadhesive properties. The goal was to study the gold nanoparticles' ability to release two specific ophthalmic drugs, flurbiprofen and ketorolac. The parameters of interest were those involving the loading conditions, the gold nanoparticles properties, and the release experimental conditions. The drug release was measured using an in vitro model based on dialysis bags coupled with UV-visible spectroscopy. Gold nanoparticles showed an ability to release different molecules, whether hydrophobic or hydrophilic, in passive or active drug release environments. Based on these preliminary results, gold nanoparticles could represent a promising drug delivery system for ketorolac and flurbiprofen when topically applied through eye drops.

Comparison of once daily dose of 0.3% nepafenac alone and three times dose of 0.1% nepafenac alone in pain and inflammation control after phacoemulsification

Purpose:

To compare the efficacy of a once-daily dose of 0.3% nepafenac and three times daily dose of 0.1% nepafenac in controlling pain and inflammation following phacoemulsification.

Methods:

In this prospective randomized control single-blind study. patients who underwent uneventful phacoemulsification were divided into two groups. Group A received 0.1% nepafenac eye drops three times/day for 4 weeks and group B received 0.3% nepafenac eye drops once daily for 4 weeks following phacoemulsification. All the patients received moxifloxacin 0.5% eye drops four times/day for 2 weeks. None of the patients in any group received any form of corticosteroids.

Results:

The mean age of the patients in group A was 63.55 ± 8.5 years, while in group B, it was 60.05 ± 7.76 years. There was no significant result in the preoperative baseline demographics and intraoperative parameters between both the groups. The results were statistically insignificant in terms of inflammatory markers between both groups on day 1. But, on day 7, group B showed better results in terms of lid edema, conjunctival congestion, and anterior chamber cells. The patients in group B also perceived significantly less pain on day 1 (P = 0.02) and day 7 (P < 0.001). The central macular thickness was also significantly lower in group B at day 30 (P < .001) and day 90 (P < .001), respectively.

Conclusion:

Once-daily dose of higher concentrated nepafenac (0.3%) is equally effective and shows better results than 0.1% nepafenac for pain and inflammation control.

Corneal Thickness and Anterior Chamber Flare After Cataract Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Five Regimens for Anti-Inflammatory Prophylaxis

Purpose

To investigate the relationship between early post-operative anterior chamber inflammation (aqueous flare) and central corneal thickness (CCT) after cataract surgery and to evaluate the effect of anti-inflammatory prophylaxis on CCT.

Setting

Department of Ophthalmology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University Hospital Copenhagen, Denmark.

Design

Post-hoc analysis of a prospective randomized controlled trial.

Patients and Methods

A total of 470 participants who underwent standard cataract surgery were randomly allocated to prophylactic treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID, groups C and D) or a combination of NSAID and steroid eye drops (groups A and B), commenced either pre-operatively (A and C) or post-operatively on the day of surgery (B and D), or "drop-less surgery" (peri-operative subtenon depot of dexamethasone, group E). Aqueous flare was measured before and three days after surgery. CCT was measured before surgery, three days, three weeks, and three months after surgery. Data were analyzed according to the intention-to-treat method.

Results

Doubling of aqueous flare increased mean CCT by 15.6 microns (95% CI 9.8; 21.3, P<0.001) three days after surgery. Mean CCT increased from 549 microns (95% CI 545; 552) at baseline to 594 microns (95% CI 585; 602) three days after surgery and returned to 551 microns (95% CI 545; 557) three months after surgery. Mean CCT was thinner in group C compared to group A three days after surgery. No difference was found for any other groups or time points.

Conclusion

Increased anterior chamber inflammation was associated with significant corneal thickening three days after cataract surgery. Choice of anti-inflammatory regimen seemed to be of no or minimal importance on CCT when the effect of inflammation was accounted for. Corneal thickening is possibly mediated by underlying deterioration of the blood-aqueous barrier and corneal endothelium pump function caused by a post-operative inflammatory response.

Comparison between 0.1% Nepafenac and 1% Prednisolone Eye Drop in Postoperative Management Following Micro-incisional Cataract Surgery

Purpose

To compare the efficacy of 0.1% nepafenac and 1% prednisolone acetate eye drop in postoperative inflammation control in micro-incisional cataract surgery.

Methods

We conducted a prospective, randomized, comparative, single-blind study. All the patients underwent temporal 2.2-mm micro-incisional cataract surgery. They were randomized into two groups (group A and B). Group A received 0.1% nepafenac eye drops 4 times/day for 4 weeks and group B received 1% prednisolone acetate eye drops in tapering doses for 4 weeks after surgery. Both the groups received moxifloxacin 0.5% eye drops 4 times/day for 2 weeks. Patients were examined on 1st, 7th, and 30th postoperative days and parameters of postoperative inflammation were evaluated and noted at each visit.

Results

A total of 200 patients were enrolled in the study. However, five patients lost to follow up, group A had 97 and group B had 98 patients respectively. Results were statistically insignificant in terms of the difference in lid edema, conjunctival congestion, corneal edema, anterior chamber cells and flare between the two groups with p-values >0.05 for each parameter at each visit. However, the difference in mean central macular thickness between the groups was significant (205.713 ± 17.14 vs. 220.984 ± 32.83 in group A and B, respectively, p ≤ 0.001) at 1 month. Also, the mean pain score was significantly lower (p = 0.018) in the nepafenac group at day 7 of surgery.

Conclusions

Nepafenac is equally effective and non-inferior to prednisolone acetate in suppression and prevention of inflammation in postoperative period.

Diabetic retinopathy: a complex pathophysiology requiring novel therapeutic strategies

INTRODUCTION

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the leading cause of vision loss in the working age population of the developed world. DR encompasses a complex pathology, and one that is reflected in the variety of currently available treatments, which include laser photocoagulation, glucocorticoids, vitrectomy and agents which neutralize vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Whilst these options demonstrate modest clinical benefits, none is yet to fully attenuate clinical progression or reverse damage to the retina. This has led to an interest in developing novel therapies for the condition, such as mediators of angiopoietin signaling axes, immunosuppressants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), oxidative stress inhibitors and vitriol viscosity inhibitors. Further, preclinical research suggests that gene therapy treatment for DR could provide significant benefits over existing treatments options.

AREAS COVERED

Here we review the pathophysiology of DR and provide an overview of currently available treatments. We then outline recent advances made towards improved patient outcomes and highlight the potential of the gene therapy paradigm to revolutionize DR management.

EXPERT OPINION

Whilst significant progress has been made towards our understanding of DR, further research is required to enable the development of a detailed spatiotemporal model of the disease. In addition, we hope that improvements in our knowledge of the condition facilitate therapeutic innovations that continue to address unmet medical need and improve patient outcomes, with a focus on the development of targeted medicines.

Comparison of the efficacy and patients' tolerability of Nepafenac and Ketorolac in the treatment of ocular inflammation following cataract surgery: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

As a new ophthalmic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with prodrug structure, Nepafenac was supposed to have a better efficacy than conventional NSAIDs both in patients’ tolerability and ocular inflammation associated with cataract surgery. However, many current studies reached contradictory conclusions on the superiority of Nepafenac over Ketorolac. The objective of our study is to evaluate the efficacy and patients’ tolerability of Nepafenac and Ketorolac following cataract surgery. To clarify this, we conducted a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Eleven articles were included in this study. The dataset consisted of 1165 patients, including 1175 cataract surgeries. Among them, 574 patients were in the Nepafenac group and 591 in the Ketorolac group. Our analysis indicated that these two drugs were equally effective in controlling post cataract surgery ocular inflammation, reducing macular edema, achieving a better visual ability and maintaining intraoperative mydriasis during cataract surgery. However, Nepafenac was more effective than Ketorolac in reducing the incidence of postoperative conjunctival hyperemia and ocular discomfort. This meta-analysis indicated that topical Nepafenac is superior to Ketorolac in patients’ tolerability following cataract surgery. However, these two drugs are equally desirable in the management of anterior chamber inflammation, visual rehabilitation and intraoperative mydriasis. Given the limitations in our study, more researches with larger sample sizes and focused on more specific indicators such as peak aqueous concentrations of drugs or PEG2 levels are required to reach a firmer conclusion.

Ketorolac Tromethamine Spray Prevents Postendotracheal-Intubation-Induced Sore Throat after General Anesthesia

Background. Postoperative sore throat is one of the major complaints of general anesthesia in the postanesthesia care unit. This prospective study investigated the preventive effect of ketorolac tromethamine spray in postendotracheal-intubation-induced sore throat after general anesthesia. Methods. Surgical patients undergoing general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation were recruited from a medical center. Patients were randomly assigned to group K (treated with 5% ketorolac tromethamine spray) or group D (treated with distilled water spray). Before intubation, each endotracheal tube was sprayed with the appropriate solution by physicians over the 20 cm length of the cuff. Each group comprised 95 patients fitting the inclusion and exclusion criteria for whom complete data sets were collected. The intensity of the sore throat was measured at 1, 3, 6, and 24 h after surgery, and data were compared. Results. The two groups had similar characteristics. Postoperative sore throat was significantly less frequent in group K than in group D (p < 0.001) and the pain intensity was significantly lower in group K than in group D at each time point (all p < 0.001). Conclusions. This study demonstrated that preanesthesia 5% ketorolac tromethamine spray could effectively decrease postendotracheal-intubation-induced sore throat in patients undergoing general anesthesia.

Prophylactic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for the prevention of macular oedema after cataract surgery

BACKGROUND

Macular oedema (MO) is the accumulation of extracellular fluid in the central retina (the macula). It may occur after cataract surgery and may give rise to poor visual outcome, with reduced visual acuity and distortion of the central vision. MO is often self-limiting with spontaneous resolution, but a small proportion of people with chronic persistent MO may be difficult to treat. Chronic oedema may lead to the formation of cystic spaces in the retina termed 'cystoid macular oedema' (CMO). Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used in cataract surgery and may reduce the chances of developing MO.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this review is to answer the question: is there evidence to support the prophylactic use of topical NSAIDs either in addition to, or instead of, topical steroids postoperatively to reduce the incidence of macular oedema (MO) and associated visual morbidity.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched a number of electronic databases including CENTRAL, MEDLINE and Embase. Date last searched 2 September 2016.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in which adult participants had undergone surgery for age-related cataract. We included participants irrespective of their baseline risk of MO, in particular we included people with diabetes and uveitis. We included trials of preoperative and/or postoperative topical NSAIDs in conjunction with postoperative topical steroids. The comparator was postoperative topical steroids alone. A secondary comparison was preoperative and/or postoperative topical NSAIDs alone versus postoperative topical steroids alone.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently selected studies for inclusion, assessed risk of bias and extracted data using standard methods expected by Cochrane. We pooled data using a random-effects model. We graded the certainty of the evidence using GRADE and considered the following: risk of bias of included studies, precision of the effect estimate, consistency of effects between studies, directness of the outcome measure and publication bias.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified 34 studies that were conducted in the Americas, Europe, the Eastern Mediterranean region and South-East Asia. Over 5000 people were randomised in these trials. The majority of studies enrolled one eye per participant; a small subset (4 trials) enrolled a proportion of people with bilateral surgery. Twenty-eight studies compared NSAIDs plus steroids with steroids alone. Six studies compared NSAIDs with steroids. A variety of NSAIDs were used, including ketorolac, diclofenac, nepafenac, indomethacin, bromfenac, flurbiprofen and pranopfen. Follow-up ranged from one to 12 months. In general, the studies were poorly reported. We did not judge any of the studies at low risk of bias in all domains. Six studies were funded by industry, seven studies were funded from non-industry sources, and the rest of the studies did not report the source of funding.There was low-certainty evidence that people receiving topical NSAIDs in combination with steroids may have a lower risk of poor vision due to MO at three months after cataract surgery compared with people receiving steroids alone (risk ratio (RR) 0.41, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.23 to 0.76; eyes = 1360; studies = 5; I2 = 5%). We judged this to be low-certainty evidence because of risk of bias in the included studies and indirectness, as the extent of visual loss was not always clear. Only one study reported poor vision due to MO at 12 months and we judged this to be very low-certainty evidence as there were only two events. Quality of life was only reported in one of the 34 studies comparing NSAIDs plus steroids versus steroids alone, and it was not fully reported, other than to comment on lack of differences between groups. There was evidence of a reduced risk of MO with NSAIDs at three months after surgery, but we judged this to be low-certainty due to risk of bias and publication bias (RR 0.40, 95% CI 0.32 to 0.49; eyes = 3638; studies = 21). There was inconsistent evidence on central retinal thickness at three months (I2 = 87%). Results ranged from -30.9 µm in favour of NSAIDs plus steroids to 7.44 µm in favour of steroids alone. Similarly, data on best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were inconsistent, but nine out of 10 trials reporting this outcome found between-group differences in visual acuity of less than 0.1 logMAR.None of the six studies comparing NSAIDs alone with steroids reported on poor vision due to MO at three or 12 months. There was low-certainty evidence that central retinal thickness was lower in the NSAIDs group at three months (mean difference (MD) -22.64 µm, 95% CI -38.86 to -6.43; eyes = 121; studies = 2). Five studies reported on MO and showed a reduced risk with NSAIDs, but we judged this evidence to be of low-certainty (RR 0.27, 95% CI 0.18 to 0.41; eyes = 520). Three studies reported BCVA at three months and the results of these trials were inconsistent, but all three studies found differences of less than 0.1 logMAR between groups.We did not note any major adverse events - the main consistent observation was burning or stinging sensation with the use of NSAIDs.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Using topical NSAIDs may reduce the risk of developing macular oedema after cataract surgery, although it is possible that current estimates as to the size of this reduction are exaggerated. It is unclear the extent to which this reduction has an impact on the visual function and quality of life of patients. There is little evidence to suggest any important effect on vision after surgery. The value of adding topical NSAIDs to steroids, or using them as an alternative to topical steroids, with a view to reducing the risk of poor visual outcome after cataract surgery is therefore uncertain. Future trials should address the remaining clinical uncertainty of whether prophylactic topical NSAIDs are of benefit, particularly with respect to longer-term follow-up (at least to 12 months), and should be large enough to detect reduction in the risk of the outcome of most interest to patients, which is chronic macular oedema leading to visual loss.

Moving Past Anti-VEGF: Novel Therapies for Treating Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in working age adults, and is projected to be a significant future health concern due to the rising incidence of diabetes. The recent advent of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) antibodies has revolutionized the treatment of diabetic retinopathy but a significant subset of patients fail to respond to treatment. Accumulating evidence indicates that inflammatory cytokines and chemokines other than VEGF may contribute to the disease process. The current review examines the presence of non-VEGF cytokines in the eyes of patients with diabetic retinopathy and highlights mechanistic pathways in relevant animal models. Finally, novel drug targets including components of the kinin-kallikrein system and emerging treatments such as anti-HPTP (human protein tyrosine phosphatase) β antibodies are discussed. Recognition of non-VEGF contributions to disease pathogenesis may lead to novel therapeutics to enhance existing treatments for patients who do not respond to anti-VEGF therapies.

Recovery after cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is the most common ophthalmological surgical procedure, and it is predicted that the number of surgeries will increase significantly in the future. However, little is known about the recovery after surgery. The first aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence, severity and duration of pain and other ocular discomfort symptoms experienced after cataract surgery. The other objectives were to identify the factors associated with lower postoperative patient satisfaction and to measure the effect of cataract surgery on patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and visual function in everyday life. The study design was a prospective follow-up study. The course of the recovery and the presence of ocular symptoms were evaluated by interviewing the patients via a questionnaire at 1 day, 1 week, 6 weeks and one year after surgery The visual functioning in everyday life was measured with Visual Functioning Index VF-7 and Catquest-9SF-questionnaires and furthermore the HRQoL was measured with the 15D-instrument before surgery and at 12 months after surgery. The patients returned the questionnaires by mail and were interviewed in the hospital on the day of the surgery. The same patients filled-in all the questionnaires. The patient reports were used to collect the data on medical history. A total of 303 patients were approached at Kuopio University Hospital in 2010-2011 and of these 196 patients were eligible and willing to participate, with postoperative data being available from 186 (95%) patients. A systematic review article was included in the study procedure and it revealed the wide range in the reported incidence of postoperative ocular pain. Some of the identified randomized controlled studies reported no or only minor pain whereas in some studies significant pain or pain lasting for several weeks has been described in more than 50% of the study patients. In the present study setting, pain was reported by 34% during the first postoperative hours and by approximately 10% of patients during the first six weeks after surgery. During the early recovery in the hospital, only a minority of the patients reporting pain were provided with pain medication. The ocular discomfort symptoms such as itchiness, burning, foreign-body sensation and tearing were common both before (54%) and after surgery (38-52%). These symptoms can also be described as painful symptoms and are often difficult to distinguish from ocular pain. The symptoms are also typical of ocular surface disease, and some patients may benefit from the postoperative administration of tear substitutes. The patients reporting postoperative ocular symptoms were less satisfied with the treatment outcome at 12 months after surgery (p = 0.001) compared to the patients who experienced no symptoms. Those patients reporting less disability in visual functioning before surgery were more satisfied than patients with more reported disability. The HRQoL improved significantly after cataract surgery (p = 0.002). However, when compared to an age-and gender-standardized control population, in cataract subjects the HRQoL remained slightly worse both before and at 12 months after surgery.

Comparing the Efficacy of Ophthalmic NSAIDs in Common Indications

Objective: To review the commercially available ophthalmic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), identify opportunities for therapeutic substitutions within and outside of their Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved indications, and identify clinically superior drugs within the class for specific indications. Data Source: A PubMed search (1992 through January 2014) was performed on the terms diclofenac, ketorolac, flurbiprofen, bromfenac, and nepafenac. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Clinical trials, meta-analyses, and review articles were evaluated if they were written in English and pertained to human subjects. Studies were excluded if they were in vitro studies, solely evaluated pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic properties, did not relate to the topical ophthalmic route, did not evaluate the FDA-approved indications of any available ophthalmic NSAID, or compared a reviewed drug with a nonreviewed drug (without placebo comparison). Data Synthesis: A total of 67 articles met the criteria for evaluation. Article quality, study design, and dosing of the medications were assessed to determine the clinical applicability of the results. The quality of the article was determined using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine Levels of Evidence 1. Conclusions: Many formulations of the 5 reviewed NSAIDs have been studied across the 4 primary indications. These indications are (1) pain and inflammation associated with cataract surgery, (2) pain associated with corneal refractive surgery, (3) inhibition of intraoperative miosis, and (4) seasonal allergic conjunctivitis. Several studies have directly compared drugs within this class and have identified instances in which certain selections are therapeutically superior or equivalent to another. This information provides practitioners with guidance in selecting an optimal medication.

Management of mydriasis and pain in cataract and intraocular lens surgery: review of current medications and future directions

The maintenance of mydriasis and the control of postoperative pain and inflammation are critical to the safety and success of cataract and intraocular lens replacement surgery. Appropriate mydriasis is usually achieved by topical and/or intracameral administration of anticholinergic agents, sympathomimetic agents, or both, with the most commonly used being cyclopentolate, tropicamide, and phenylephrine. Ocular inflammation is common after cataract surgery. Topical steroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are widely used because they have been proved effective to control postsurgical inflammation and decrease pain. Topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have also been shown to help maintain dilation. However, use of multiple preoperative drops for pupil dilation, inflammation, and pain control have been shown to be time consuming, resulting in delays to the operating room, and they cause dissatisfaction among perioperative personnel; their use can also be associated with systemic side effects. Therefore, ophthalmologists have been in search of new options to streamline this process. This article will review the current medications commonly used for intraoperative mydriasis, as well as pain and inflammation control. In addition, a new combination of ketorolac, an anti-inflammatory agent, and phenylephrine, a mydriatic agent has recently been designed to maintain intraoperative mydriasis and to reduce postoperative pain and irritation from intraocular lens replacement surgery. Two Phase III clinical trials evaluating this combination have demonstrated statistically significant differences when compared to placebo in maintaining intraoperative mydriasis (P<0.00001) and in reducing pain in the early postoperative period (P=0.0002). This medication may be of benefit for use in cataract and lens replacement surgery in the near future.

Topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for macular edema

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are nowadays widely used in ophthalmology to reduce eye inflammation, pain, and cystoid macular edema associated with cataract surgery. Recently, new topical NSAIDs have been approved for topical ophthalmic use, allowing for greater drug penetration into the vitreous. Hence, new therapeutic effects can be achieved, such as reduction of exudation secondary to age-related macular degeneration or diabetic maculopathy. We provide an updated review on the clinical use of NSAIDs for retinal diseases, with a focus on the potential future applications.

Effect of air bubble on inflammation after cataract surgery in rabbit eyes

Purpose:

Intense inflammation after cataract surgery can cause cystoid macular edema, posterior synechia and posterior capsule opacification. This experimental study was performed to investigate the effect of air bubble on inflammation when given to anterior chamber of rabbit eyes after cataract surgery.

Materials and Methods:

30 eyes of 15 rabbits were enrolled in the study. One of the two eyes was in the study group and the other eye was in the control group. After surgery air bubble was given to the anterior chamber of the study group eye and balanced salt solution (BSS; Alcon) was left in the anterior chamber of control eye.

Results:

On the first, second, fourth and fifth days, anterior chamber inflammations of the eyes were examined by biomicroscopy. On the sixth day anterior chamber fluid samples were taken for evaluation of nitric oxide levels as an inflammation marker. When the two groups were compared, in the air bubble group there was statistically less inflammation was seen. (1, 2, 4. days P = 0,001, and 5. day P = 0,009).

Conclusions:

These results have shown that when air bubble is left in anterior chamber of rabbits’ eyes after cataract surgery, it reduced inflammation. We believe that, air bubble in the anterior chamber may be more beneficial in the cataract surgery of especially pediatric age group, uveitis patients and diabetics where we see higher inflammation. However, greater and long termed experimental and clinical studies are necessary for more accurate findings.

Efficacy and safety of indomethacin 0.1% eye drops compared with ketorolac 0.5% eye drops in the management of ocular inflammation after cataract surgery

PURPOSE

To determine whether indomethacin 0.1% eye drops are at least as effective as ketorolac 0.5% eye drops in treating ocular inflammation following cataract surgery.

METHODS

Prospective, multicenter, investigator-masked, parallel-group, randomized, active-controlled clinical trial. Cataract patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive indomethacin or ketorolac administered QID for 3 weeks beginning 1 day before surgery. The primary end-point was aqueous flare measured by laser flare meter at postoperative Days 1 and 7. Secondary end-points included retinal thickness, slit lamp and funduscopic examinations and postsurgical pain ratings. Safety and tolerability were also assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 86 patients were included in the per protocol population (n = 43 per treatment group). Indomethacin was found non-inferior to ketorolac for comparison of aqueous flare at postoperative Days 1 and 7 (Day 1: 95% CI: -2.37, 5.50; non-inferiority upper margin, 15 ph/ms and Day 7: 95% CI: -7.83, -0.94; non-inferiority upper margin, 8 ph/ms) and statistically better than ketorolac at Day 7 (p = 0.013). There were no significant between-group differences in aqueous flare and change from baseline in retinal thickness at postoperative Days 30 and 90. Indomethacin showed a higher subjective tolerance rating than ketorolac at postoperative Days 7 and 30 (p ≤ 0.044).

CONCLUSION

Indomethacin 0.1% was at least as effective as ketorolac 0.5% at Day 1 and more effective than ketorolac 0.5% at Day 7 in treating ocular inflammation after uncomplicated cataract surgery. Indomethacin was better tolerated than ketorolac. There were no clinically meaningful safety concerns with either treatment.

A Prospective, Open-label Study to Compare the Efficacy and the Safety of Topical Loteprednol Etabonate and Topical Flurbiprofen Sodium in Patients with Post-Operative Inflammation after Cataract Extraction

PURPOSE

To study the effect of the topical Non-Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drug (NSAID), Flurbiprofen 0.03%, as an alternative to the topical steroids for the postoperative control of inflammation in cataract surgeries.

METHODS

The effect of the topical NSAID, flurbiprofen sodium 0.03%, was studied and compared with that of the topical steroid - Loteprednol etabonate 0.5% suspension (as eye drops) in a prospective, open labelled study. Both the groups (20 patients each) were similar in the baseline parameters. The postoperative inflammatory response following the standard, small incision, extra capsular cataract extraction was assessed in both the groups for 28 post-operative days. The parameters which were considered for the study were conjunctival hyperaemia, ciliary congestion, corneal oedema, cells in the anterior chamber, aqueous flare and ocular pain. The severity of the postoperative inflammatory responses for both the drugs was graded on the post-operative days 1, 7, 14, 21 and 28 and it was statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

The 2 groups did not differ statistically in the effect of the treatment for any of the variables, which included aqueous cells, flare, ciliary congestion and conjunctival congestion (p< 0.001). Both the drugs were well tolerated and no severe adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) were caused by the topical NSAID and the topical steroid.

CONCLUSION

The topical NSAID, Flurbiprofen, is as effective as the topical corticosteroid, Loteprednol and it can be used as an alternative in the routine postoperative treatment following uncomplicated cataract surgeries.

Prophylactic nepafenac and ketorolac versus placebo in preventing postoperative macular edema after uneventful phacoemulsification

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy of prophylactic ketorolac 0.5% versus nepafenac 0.1% versus placebo on macular volume 1 month after uneventful phacoemulsification and evaluate the health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL) of topical nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in the context of cataract surgery.

SETTING

Hotel Dieu Hospital, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.

DESIGN

Prospective placebo-controlled parallel-assignment double-masked randomized clinical trial.

METHODS

In this study, patients 18 years or older scheduled for routine phacoemulsification were randomized to a placebo, ketorolac 0.5%, or nepafenac 0.1% and dosed 4 times a day starting 1 day before surgery and continuing for 4 weeks. Spectral-domain macular cube ocular coherence tomography scans measuring central subfield thickness, macular cube volume, and average macular cube thickness were performed at baseline and 1 month postoperatively. The HRQOL metrics were determined with the Comparison of Ophthalmic Medications for Tolerability (COMTOL) questionnaire.

RESULTS

Each study group comprised 54 patients. One month postoperatively, although a trend toward significance occurred for nepafenac and ketorolac, analysis of the means of differences showed no statistically significant differences between the 3 study groups (P=.2901). The COMTOL analysis found no difference in tolerability, compliance, side-effect frequency and bother, and effects on HRQOL between ketorolac and nepafenac compared with the placebo.

CONCLUSIONS

One month after uneventful phacoemulsification, there was no difference in macular volume between the placebo, ketorolac, and nepafenac. Ketorolac and nepafenac were well tolerated with minimal side-effect profiles. Thus, for patients without risk factors having routine surgery, prophylactic topical NSAIDs are not recommended.

Critical appraisal of ophthalmic ketorolac in treatment of pain and inflammation following cataract surgery

Background:

The purpose of this review was to provide a critical appraisal of the literature supporting the efficacy of ophthalmic ketorolac (Acuvail^®) in the treatment of pain and inflammation after cataract surgery.

Methods:

Literature search and expert opinion of the authors.

Results:

Recent studies indicate greater intraocular drug levels in the anterior chamber and iris-ciliary body after topical application of Acuvail in comparison with older formulations of ketorolac. A large randomized, multicenter, placebo-controlled study demonstrated significantly less inflammation and pain after cataract surgery using Acuvail.

Conclusion:

Acuvail appears to be effective in reducing post-cataract surgery pain and inflammation.

Twice-daily, preservative-free ketorolac 0.45% for treatment of inflammation and pain after cataract surgery

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of twice-daily, preservative-free ketorolac 0.45% (Acuvail; Allergan, Inc, Irvine, California, USA) administration for treatment of inflammation and pain after cataract surgery.

DESIGN

Prospective, randomized trial.

METHODS

Two multicenter, double-masked studies randomized 511 cataract surgery patients (2:1) to receive twice-daily ketorolac 0.45% or vehicle in the operative eye for 16 days, beginning 1 day before surgery. The primary efficacy end point was the percentage of patients with a summed ocular inflammation score of 0 for anterior chamber cell and flare on postoperative day 14. The main secondary efficacy end point was the percentage of patients with no pain on postoperative day 1.

RESULTS

On day 14, 52.5% of ketorolac patients and 26.5% of vehicle patients had an summed ocular inflammation score of 0 (P < .001). On day 1, 72.4% of ketorolac patients and 39.7% of vehicle patients had a pain score of 0 (P < .001). Median time to pain resolution was 1 day in the ketorolac group and 2 days in the vehicle group (P < .001). The percentage of ketorolac and vehicle patients who had a +3-line or more improvement in best-corrected visual acuity from baseline was 60.5% versus 44.0% on day 14 (P = .002). Overall, adverse events were more prevalent in the vehicle group than in the ketorolac group (48.5% vs 35.2%; P = .004). Burning or stinging (per a composite Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities) was reported by 1.5% of ketorolac patients and 0.6% of vehicle patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Twice-daily ketorolac 0.45% was well tolerated and effectively treated inflammation and pain following cataract surgery.

Efficacy and tolerability of preservative-free and preserved diclofenac and preserved ketorolac eyedrops after cataract surgery

PURPOSE

To compare the anti-inflammatory efficacy and subjective tolerability of preservative-free and preserved diclofenac 0.1% and preserved ketorolac 0.5% eye drops for prophylaxis and management of inflammation after cataract surgery.

DESIGN

Prospective, randomized, investigator-masked, parallel-group, comparative clinical trial.

METHODS

One hundred two patients who underwent small-incision phacoemulsification cataract surgery in an institutional setting were assigned randomly to receive preservative-free diclofenac sodium 0.1% (Voltaren ophtha SDU; Novartis Pharma), preserved diclofenac sodium 0.1% (Voltaren ophtha; Novartis Pharma), or preserved ketorolac tromethamine 0.5% (Acular; Pharm Allergan) eyedrops 4 times daily for 4 weeks after surgery. During the 1-month follow-up, anterior chamber flare and mean foveal thickness were evaluated for objective comparison of the anti-inflammatory effect. Ocular tolerability was assessed by observer-based grading of conjunctival hyperemia and ocular discomfort, as well as obtaining subjective ratings of ocular tolerability on a visual analog scale. Distance and near visual acuity and intraocular pressure served as safety measures.

RESULTS

All 3 formulations demonstrated equal anti-inflammatory efficacy as measured by reduction of anterior chamber flare after surgery and prevention of postoperative macular edema. Patients treated with preservative-free diclofenac eyedrops reported significantly better subjective tolerability values (P = .001), were classified as having less ocular discomfort (P < .001), and experienced earlier reduction of postoperative conjunctival hyperemia (P = .029).

CONCLUSIONS

Anti-inflammatory efficacy was comparable for all 3 agents. However, preservative-free diclofenac 0.1% eyedrops exhibited a significantly better postoperative subjective and objective tolerability when compared with preserved eyedrops containing ketorolac or diclofenac.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in ophthalmology

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are increasingly employed in ophthalmology to reduce miosis and inflammation, manage scleritis, and prevent and treat cystoid macular edema associated with cataract surgery. In addition, they may decrease postoperative pain and photophobia associated with refractive surgery and may reduce the itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis. In recent years, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved new topical NSAIDs, and previously approved NSAIDs have been reformulated. These additions and changes result in different pharmacokinetics and dosing intervals, which may offer therapeutic advantages. For example, therapeutic effects on diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration may now be achievable. We provide an updated review on NSAIDs and a summary of their current uses in ophthalmology with attention to potential future applications.

Inhibition of surgically induced miosis and prevention of postoperative macular edema with nepafenac

Objective:

To evaluate the effectiveness of prophylactic administration of nepafenac 0.1% in maintaining mydriasis and in preventing postoperative macular edema following cataract surgery.

Methods:

This was a prospective, randomized, single-masked comparative study in 60 patients undergoing phacoemulsification cataract surgery. Patients were randomized to either the nepafenac or the control group. Nepafenac was administered 3 times daily 1 day before surgery and continued for 6 weeks. The control group received tobramycin-dexamethasone treatment only. Trans-operative mydriasis was measured before surgery, after nuclear emulsification, following cortex aspiration, and at the conclusion of surgery. Macular optical coherence tomography determined central foveal thickness (FT) and total macular volume (TMV) before surgery and at 2 and 6 weeks after surgery. All patients received tobramycin-dexamethasone for 2 weeks after surgery.

Results:

The difference in mean pupil size, at the end of surgery, between the control group (6.84 ± 0.93 mm) and the nepafenac group (7.91 ± 0.74 mm) was statistically significant (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in FT values between the two groups at any time point; however, TMV at 2 and at 6 weeks was statistically significantly different (p < 0.001), with higher TMV in the control group.

Conclusion:

Prophylactic use of nepafenac was effective in reducing macular edema after cataract surgery and in maintaining trans-operative mydriasis.

In vitro corneal permeation of diclofenac from oil drops

In vitro transcorneal permeation of diclofenac from oil drops was studied using freshly excised goat cornea. The maximum apparent corneal permeability coefficient (Papp) was obtained with 0.2% (w/v) diclofenac drops in sesame oil followed by safflower oil, while formulation in castor oil provided minimal Papp. The addition of benzyl alcohol, a preservative, in oil drops, increased the Papp value of diclofenac. Partition experiments indicated increased partitioning of diclofenac in the aqueous phase in the presence of benzyl alcohol, and the same could be responsible for the benzyl alcohol-induced increase in Papp. The solubility of diclofenac was higher in castor, arachis, and sunflower oil. But drug permeation from 0.5-1.0% (w/v) diclofenac drops in castor oil or 0.5% (w/v) drops in arachis /sunflower oil was less than that observed with 0.2% (w/v) drops in sesame oil. Thus diclofenac 0.2% (w/v) drops in sesame oil containing 0.5% (v/v) benzyl alcohol provides maximum Papp. The formulation increased corneal hydration indicating corneal damage. Since corneal hydration is less than 83% the damage appears to be reversible. The saturation solubility of diclofenac in sesame oil at 4 degrees C is 0.33% (w/v). Hence diclofenac 0.2% (w/v) solution in sesame oil will not precipitate at 4 degrees C and therefore the chances of crystallization of diclofenac from the formulation due to climatic change leading to physical instability appear to be remote.

The role of NSAIDs in the management of postoperative ophthalmic inflammation

Recent advances in cataract surgery, such as phacoemulsification, small-incision surgery and advances in foldable intraocular lenses, have resulted in the decrease of physical trauma associated with cataract surgery. The decrease in the physical surgical trauma decreases the release of prostaglandins, which are the main players in postoperative ocular inflammation. However, postoperative inflammation continues to be a cause of patient discomfort, delayed recovery and, in some cases, suboptimal visual results. Left untreated, this inflammation might interfere with patients' rehabilitation and/or contribute to the development of other complications, such as cystoid macular oedema.NSAIDs are commercially available, in topical or systemic formulations, for the prophylaxis and treatment of ocular conditions. Topically applied NSAIDs are commonly used in the management and prevention of non-infectious ocular inflammation and cystoid macular oedema following cataract surgery. They are also used in the management of pain following refractive surgery and in the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis. Despite their chemical heterogeneity, all NSAIDs share the similar therapeutic property of inhibiting the cyclo-oxygenase enzyme. The appeal of using NSAIDs in the treatment of ocular inflammation hinges on the complications associated with corticosteroids, the other commonly used therapy for ophthalmic inflammation.

Anti-inflammatory efficacy of a single posterior subtenon injection of triamcinolone acetonide versus prednisolone acetate 1% eyedrops after pars plana vitrectomy

PURPOSE

To compare the safety and anti-inflammatory efficacy of a single posterior subtenon injection of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) with prednisolone acetate 1% eyedrops after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV).

METHODS

The study included 40 consecutive phakic eyes of 40 patients undergoing PPV for non-clearing vitreous haemorrhage with attached retina (verified by echography), epiretinal membrane or macular hole. At the end of the surgical procedure, eyes were randomized to receive either a single posterior subtenon injection of TA (40 mg in 1 ml) plus sham eyedrops (prednisolone acetate 1% vehicle) postoperatively (group TA), or a posterior subtenon sham injection (1 ml balanced salt solution) plus prednisolone acetate 1% eyedrops postoperatively (group ED).

RESULTS

There was no difference in the severity of anterior chamber cell and flare between the two groups at any time-point during the study period (p > 0.05). Separate within-group analysis revealed a significant decrease in anterior chamber cell and flare from postoperative day 1 to postoperative days 7, 14 and 28 in both groups (p < 0.05). There was no difference in pain, photophobia, conjunctival erythema, ciliary flush or chemosis scores between the two groups at any time-point during the study period (p > 0.05). Steroid-induced intraocular hypertension was not observed in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

A single posterior subtenon injection of TA can be as effective and safe as a 4-week regimen of prednisolone acetate 1% eyedrops in controlling intraocular inflammation after PPV.

Bromfenac ophthalmic solution 0.09% (Xibrom) for postoperative ocular pain and inflammation

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and ocular safety of bromfenac ophthalmic solution 0.09% (Xibrom) for the treatment of postoperative inflammation and reduction of ocular pain in subjects who have undergone cataract extraction (CE).

DESIGN

Two phase III, multicenter, randomized, double-masked, parallel, placebo-controlled clinical trials were conducted under a common protocol. Data were pooled for analyses.

PARTICIPANTS

Five hundred twenty-seven subjects were sequentially assigned, according to a computer-generated randomization list (2:1), to bromfenac (n = 356) or a placebo (n = 171).

INTERVENTION

Subjects who underwent cataract surgery without prior antiinflammatory treatment with a postsurgical Summed Ocular Inflammation Score (SOIS) of > or =3 were treated with either bromfenac or the placebo, instilled twice daily for 14 days in the study eye, and observed for an additional 14 days for safety evaluation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Cleared ocular inflammation with a SOIS of 0 (cells< or =5 and absence of flare after 14 days of treatment). Secondary outcomes included time to resolution of ocular inflammation, time to resolution of ocular pain, proportion of subjects with photophobia, and ocular adverse events.

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups for age, gender, and race. The baseline mean SOIS was 3.7 in both groups. A greater proportion of bromfenac (64.0%) than placebo subjects (43.3%) achieved complete clearance of ocular inflammation at study day 15 (P<0.0001). The effect of bromfenac on clearance of ocular inflammation was as early as study day 3 after initiation of treatment, compared with the placebo (8.4% vs. 1.2%, P = 0.0012). The median time to resolution of ocular pain was 2 days (bromfenac) versus 5 days (placebo) (P<0.0001). Numbers of most ocular adverse events were lower for the bromfenac group than for the placebo group. Eye irritation was reported in a lower percentage of subjects for bromfenac (2.5%) versus placebo (4.7%), as were burning and stinging (1.4% vs. 2.5%), and photophobia (2.0% vs. 11.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

Bromfenac ophthalmic solution 0.09% effectively and rapidly cleared ocular inflammation and reduced ocular pain after CE. There were no serious ocular adverse events, and fewer adverse events were reported for the bromfenac group.

Nepafenac ophthalmic suspension 0.1% for the prevention and treatment of ocular inflammation associated with cataract surgery

PURPOSE

To determine whether nepafenac ophthalmic suspension 0.1% decreases the incidence and severity of inflammation and pain after cataract surgery with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation.

SETTING

Twenty-one ophthalmology clinics in the United States.

METHODS

A randomized double-blind vehicle-controlled trial was conducted in which adult patients were randomly assigned to receive nepafenac 0.1% or vehicle beginning 1 day before surgery and continuing on the day of surgery (day 0) for 14 days. Patients were evaluated on days 1, 3, 7, and 14. The primary efficacy variable was the percentage of patients cured at day 14 (cure defined as aqueous cells score + aqueous flare score = 0). Other efficacy variables included percentage of patients who were pain free at all visits and aqueous cells, flare, and cells plus flare scores.

RESULTS

The mean age of the 476 patients (243 nepafenac, 233 vehicle) was 70 years (range 27 to 93 years). At day 14, 152 patients (62.6%) in the nepafenac group and 40 (17.2%) in the vehicle group were cured (P<.0001). A higher percentage of patients in the nepafenac group was pain free at all visits (P<.0001). Throughout the study, most nepafenac-treated patients were pain free (83.1% to 93.0%) compared with less than half the vehicle-treated patients (41.6% to 46.4%). The nepafenac group had lower mean aqueous cells, flare, and cells plus flare scores at all visits (P<.0001). No treatment-related ocular adverse events occurred in either group.

CONCLUSION

Nepafenac ophthalmic suspension 0.1% was safe and effective for preventing and treating ocular inflammation and pain associated with cataract surgery.

Effect of formulation factors on in-vitro permeation of diclofenac from experimental and marketed aqueous eye drops through excised goat cornea

The effect of formulation factors on permeation of diclofenac from some experimental and marketed aqueous eye drops through excised goat cornea was evaluated. Raising the pH of formulation from 6.0 to 8.0 or diclofenac concentration from 0.05 to 0.15% (w/v) or adjusting tonicity with mannitol or addition of viscolizing agent decreased apparent permeability coefficient (Papp). Formulation (pH 7.4) containing sodium metabisulfite or EDTA or combination of methyl and propyl paraben showed significantly (p<0.05) higher Papp whereas benzalkonium chloride (BAC) had no effect and sorbic acid (SA) had reduced permeation. Surprisingly marketed drops containing BAC or SA, showed significantly (p<0.05) higher Papp and decreased in the order of Difen>Voveran>NSAID>Dicol>Diclolab. Lower pH (7.1-7.3) and surface tension of drops indicating presence of surfactant, could mediate increased permeation and presence of buffer could cause irritation on in vivo instillation. The marketed formulations showed corneal hydration >83% suggesting corneal damaging potential.