Intraocular lens as a drug delivery reservoir.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To describe the development and use of intraocular lenses (IOLs) as drug delivery systems and to review the current literature on their application and efficacy.

RECENT FINDINGS: Many drugs have been loaded onto IOLs by coating or by attachment in a separate reservoir. With incorporation of polymeric materials either as a coating or by attachment as a separate reservoir, it is possible to achieve a sustained and controlled release of drugs. Experimental evidence in animal models has shown that IOL drug delivery systems are effective in the prevention and treatment of inflammation, infection and posterior capsule opacification after cataract surgery.

SUMMARY: The use of IOLs as drug delivery reservoirs appears to show great promise. Although excellent results with therapeutic potential have been reported in experimental animal studies, further studies are needed to reach clinical use.