NOVEL DRUG DELIVERY APPROACHES FOR CARBONIC ANHYDRASE INHIBITORS IN GLAUCOMA THERAPY

Glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, is primarily associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (CAIs), such as Dorzolamide and Acetazolamide, play a crucial role in reducing aqueous humor production. However, conventional formulations suffer from poor ocular bioavailability, rapid precorneal elimination, and low patient compliance. This review highlights recent advances in novel ocular drug delivery systems for CAIs, including nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, liposomes, dendrimers, and in-situ gelling systems. These approaches aim to overcome ocular barriers, enhance drug retention, and provide sustained release. The paper also discusses formulation challenges, clinical translation, and future perspectives in improving therapeutic outcomes for Glaucoma management.