Ophthalmic rods. New ocular drug delivery devices.

ABSTRACT

Ophthalmic Rods, new drug delivery devices for ophthalmic medications, are 2-inch-long plastic rods coated with an ocular diagnostic or therapeutic agent. When the drug-coated tip of the rod is brought into contact with the conjunctiva, the medication dissolves into the tear film. We evaluated the safety, comfort, and ease of use of Ophthalmic Rods coated with fluorescein (30 micrograms) in 28 volunteers. Seventy-nine percent (22 of 28) of the patients rated the device as superior to eyedrops, citing cleanliness, comfort, and ease of application as the primary advantages. Ophthalmic Rods effectively delivered fluorescein to the eye and were found to be safe in patients with various refractive conditions, including those with compromised near vision and accommodation.