Drug delivery ophthalmic insert and method for preparing same

摘要

A drug delivery ophthalmic insert prepared by forming a water soluble solid polymer into a paste by the addition of a small fixed amount of water, drying the paste and then sectioning the paste into a plurality of rod shaped inserts is provided. The insert is rendered suitable for prolonged and sustained delivery of medication to the eye since it is formed by the addition of a small amount of water and has a surface area less than about 3 mm2. Specific water soluble solid polymers which may be used include methylcellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, alginic acid and combinations thereof as well as mixtures of pilocarpine dispersed in methylcellulose and its combinations.