A potential new therapeutic system for glaucoma: solid lipid nanoparticles containing methazolamide

Abstract

Methazolamide (MTA) is an antiglaucoma drug; however, there are many side effects of its systemic administration with insufficient ocular therapeutic concentrations. The aim of this study was to formulate MTA-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and evaluate the potential of SLNs as a new therapeutic system for glaucoma. SLNs were prepared by a modified emulsion–solvent evaporation method and their physicochemical characteristics were evaluated. The pharmacodynamics was investigated by determining the percentage decrease in intraocular pressure. The ocular irritation was studied by Draize test. Despite a burst release of SLNs, the pharmacodynamic experiment indicated that MTA–SLNs had higher therapeutic efficacy, later occurrence of maximum action, and more prolonged effect than drug solution and commercial product. Formulation of MTA–SLNs would be a potential delivery carrier for ocular delivery, with the advantages of a more intensive treatment for glaucoma, lower in doses and better patient compliance compared to the conventional eye drops.