Development and Evaluation of a pH-Triggered Aristoflex-Based In-Situ Gel for Sustained Acetazolamide Delivery in Glaucoma Management

Introduction: Glaucoma is a common eye condition characterized by elevated in-traocular pressure (IOP), which can lead to gradual vision loss or serious ocular issues. An effective dosage form is needed to address challenges, such as poor bioavailability and short retention time on the ocular surface. The current study aims to develop a sustained-release in-situ gel formulation by modifying its polymeric composition, thereby overcoming the bar-riers of existing ocular drug delivery systems. Methods: The formulations were prepared using the cold method and optimized with experi-mental design software to assess the effect of different concentrations, with viscosity as the dependent variable. The optimized formulation (S2) was tested for clarity, viscosity, pH, gel-ling capacity, rheological behavior, and drug–polymer interactions in-vitro, ex-vivo, and in-vivo. Results: The in-situ gel was transparent, with a pH of 7.1, viscosity of 16327 CP, and trans-formed from sol to gel at ocular pH. Additionally, the formulation demonstrated sustained drug release in both in vitro and in vivo studies, yielding a favorable result in reducing IOP. Discussion: Among all the polymers used in the formulation, Aristoflex and sodium alginate make an excellent formulation with a more extended gelling period and increased ocular res-idence. Conclusion: The optimized formulation (S2), unlike traditional eye drops, may offer im-proved ocular delivery at lower doses and enhance patient compliance.