Ophthalmic preservatives: focus on polyquaternium-1

Authors: Rolando, Maurizio¹; Crider, Julie Y²; Kahook, Malik Y³

Source: Expert Opinion on Drug Delivery, Volume 8, Number 11, November 2011 , pp. 1425-1438(14)

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Abstract:

Introduction: Ophthalmic preservatives, such as polyquaternium-1 (PQ-1), are critical for the inhibition of growth of microbial contaminants in multi-dose bottles of topical medications. These antimicrobial agents must have a high efficacy against pathogenic organisms, while maintaining a favorable tolerability and safety profile.

Areas covered: This review focuses on the ophthalmic preservative PQ-1. For comparison purposes, the most commonly used preservative, benzalkonium chloride (BAK), is also discussed. This survey focuses primarily on data collected during the past 10 years.

Expert opinion: Effective drug delivery requires more than just an active ingredient that achieves its desired biological effect on end-target tissues. In addition, drugs must be stable in the containers that they are stored in, and must possess minimal undesired local and systemic side effects that can cause patients to decrease their adherence. In addressing these concerns, specifically in topical ophthalmic drops, one must take into account the active ingredients, vehicle components and preservatives. Medications with fewer adverse effects may lead to enhanced adherence to therapy; therefore, the induction of such adverse outcomes must be considered by physicians when treating patients with chronic ocular disease. Although BAK will continue to be used in ophthalmic medications, due to its familiarity and compatibility with a broad range of topical ocular formulations, PQ-1 is certainly a viable alternative in the preservative formulary armamentarium.

Keywords: benzalkonium chloride; cytotoxicity; dry eye; glaucoma; multi-purpose disinfecting solution; polyquaternium-1; preservative

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1517/17425247.2011.617736

Affiliations: 1: 1 University of Genova, Dept Neuroscience Ophthal, Via Gorgona 12 Int 9, Genova 16146, Italy 2: 2 Collaborative Medical Writing, PO Box 2101, Mansfield, TX 76063, USA 3: 3 University of Colorado Hospital Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Denver, CO, USA ++1 720 848 2500; ++1 720 848 5014;, Email: malik.kahook@gmail.com

Publication date: 2011-11-01

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Ophthalmic preservatives: focus on polyquaternium-1

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