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Punctum plug for sustained drug delivery demonstrates strong retention rates
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SAN DIEGO — A study showed promising outcomes for an antibiotic-containing punctum plug used for sustained drug release, according to a presenter here.
"Initial moxifloxacin punctum plug safety and feasibility was demonstrated, and there was a 95% retention through day 10," Soon-Phaik Chee, MD, said at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery meeting.
The moxifloxacin punctum plug (Ocular Therapeutix) is a polyethylene glycol hydrogel plug with moxifloxacin-encapsulated microspheres and dimensions that swell and shrink to conform to the punctum.
Two phase-1 prospective, single-arm studies were conducted at the Singapore National Eye Center, each following up 10 eyes for 30 days after cataract surgery.
The first study achieved 90% retention through day 10, and all plugs were absent at 30 days. After adjusting for more stringent tear sample collection, the second study showed higher levels of moxifloxacin and a 100% retention through day 10.
"Therapeutic level of moxifloxacin in the tear fluid was achieved, and there was overall ease of use noted for the product," Dr. Chee said.
No adverse events were reported. A larger trial will be conducted by Ocular Therapeutix.
- Disclosure: Dr. Chee has no financial interest in any of the products discussed in this article, nor is she a paid consultant for any companies mentioned.