This webinar is part one of three in the webinar series on ophthalmic preparations. Part I, Principles of Ocular Pharmacology, reviews the basic principles of ocular pharmacology, including anatomy and pharmacokinetics. Part II, Formulation Considerations, surveys the art and science of compounding by reviewing the guidelines for sterile compounding and for preparing ophthalmic formulations. Finally, Part III, Compounding Opportunities, applies what was learned by looking at specific examples of compounding opportunities in both human and veterinary ophthalmology.

ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION

Ophthalmic diseases can be treated either with pharmacotherapy, surgery, or a combination of both. We are fortunate to have many of the ophthalmic drugs we need manufactured and readily accessible with a prescription. Sometimes, however, what an ophthalmologist needs to effectively treat a patient differs from what is available in the market. Compounding exists to bridge this gap in the delivery of healthcare. In this webinar, the second in the series Ophthalmic Preparations, we review the main indications for compounding.

Due to the sensitivity of the eye to biological insults and due to its proximity to the brain, compounded ophthalmic preparations must be prepared in a sterile environment. Requirements for sterility will be discussed by reviewing important elements found in United States Pharmacopoeia (USP) General Chapter <797> Pharmaceutical Compounding – Sterile Preparations. Finally, based on USP General Chapter <771> Ophthalmic Products – Quality Tests, we take a closer look at what makes an ophthalmic formulation; its constituent ingredients, its ideal physicochemical properties, and quality control parameters that must be met before the drug is dispensed.