BostonSight has announced the publication of a pilot study in Clinical Ophthalmology exploring the use of PROSE (prosthetic replacement of the ocular surface ecosystem) scleral lenses as a drug delivery system for preservative-free cyclosporine 0.05% in the treatment of dry eye disease. The study highlights a novel approach to managing dry eye by utilizing the unique properties of scleral lenses.
PROSE Lenses as a Drug Delivery System
PROSE treatment involves customized scleral lenses that rest on the sclera, vaulting over the cornea to create a new ocular surface. The space between the lens and the cornea is filled with preservative-free saline, forming a fluid reservoir that continuously bathes the cornea. This promotes comfort, healing, and relief for patients with corneal irregularities and ocular surface diseases.
In this pilot study, researchers tested the delivery of cyclosporine 0.05% (available as Restasis and Cequa) via the scleral lens reservoir. Daniel Brocks, MD, Chief Medical Officer at BostonSight and lead investigator, noted the study's importance in addressing scientific questions about using PROSE lenses for drug delivery.
Key Findings and Implications
The study reported encouraging results regarding symptom relief and ocular surface tolerability when cyclosporine 0.05% was delivered through the PROSE reservoir. Early data also hinted at potential efficacy. The authors emphasized that the ophthalmic and optometric community is still in the early stages of understanding the potential of scleral lenses for delivering preservative-free ocular medications.
"This pilot study reports encouraging results in terms of symptom relief and ocular surface tolerability for cyclosporine 0.05% when delivered via a PROSE reservoir," the authors wrote. "Additionally, early data suggest potential efficacy."
The researchers concluded that their findings support further investigation into the safety and efficacy of using the PROSE reservoir as a drug delivery system for cyclosporine 0.05% in treating dry eye disease. They also stressed the importance of a standardized, scientific approach to utilizing PROSE lenses for drug delivery.
Future Directions
"Ultimately, we anticipate that our research in this area will lead to new ocular management strategies that improve ocular health and enhance the lives of our patients," said Dr. Brocks. Further studies are needed to fully evaluate the potential of PROSE lenses as a drug delivery system and to optimize treatment protocols for dry eye disease and other ocular surface conditions.
