Development of Vitreal Drug Delivery System with Biodegradable Polymeric Scleral Plug

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We have developed a novel drug delivery system in the vitreous body with the use of biodegradable polymers. Scleral plugs made of biodegradable polymers implanted at the pars plana were evaluated to determine its ability to control the intravitreal release of drugs. Scleral plugs containing various drugs, such as ganciclovir, 5-fluorouracil, and fluconazol, were prepared with poly(lactic-glycolic acid). Drug release from the plugs was studied in vitro as well as in vivo using rabbits and monkeys. Biocompatibility of the scleral plugs was also evaluated in rabbits and monkeys. The in vitro studies showed the plugs released the drugs for several weeks to several months. The in vivo studies showed the drug concentrations were maintained at effective ranges for certain period of time after the implantation of the plugs. No significant adverse reactions were observed in the ocular tissues both clinically and histologically.These results suggested that scleral plugs of biodegradable polymers are promising for a controlled drug delivery system in the vitreous.