What punctal plug delivery of dexamethasone means for allergic conjunctivitis

Take-home message: Treatment of chronic allergic conjunctivitis with a sustained-release dexamethasone resulted in better clinical results because of the sustained and controlled delivery.

Reviewed by Eugene B. McLaurin, MD, FACS  

Memphis, TN-Sustained drug delivery for allergic conjunctivitis is a potential new treatment for the ocular and nasal signs of allergic conjunctivitis. A phase II clinical study of a punctal plug depot of dexamethasone showed evidence of both safety and efficacy over 6 weeks, the maximum time frame associated with pollen seasons in most areas.

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"We see significant advantages of using a sustained delivery system over eye drops said Eugene B. McLaurin, MD FACS, Total Eye Care, Memphis, TN.

Dr. McLaurin provided an overview of the study that evaluated sustained-release dexamethasone for the treatment of chronic allergic conjunctivitisusing a modified Conjunctival Allergen Model.

Related: What clinicians should know about ocular allergies

The trial was sponsored by Ocular Therapeutix. The company launched its phase III program later in 2015. The same sustained-release dexamethasone product candidate is under review by the FDA for postsurgical pain and inflammation.

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