Study shows sustained-release contact lens holds ‘promise’

Researchers used a 3D digital printing technology to deliver bimatoprost and hyaluronic acid via an FDA-approved 55% methafilcon contact lens for the treatment of glaucoma. The study, presented at the 2024 American Academy of Optometry Annual Meeting, found that this contact lens effectively reduced intraocular pressure (IOP) and was equivalent to 0.01% bimatoprost eye drops.

The study included patients with primary open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. The 21-day, randomized, phase 2b trial included 14 patients and compared the printed contact lens with bimatoprost and hyaluronic acid for continuous weekly wear versus 0.01% bimatoprost eye drops administered once daily.

Both groups experienced about a 30% decrease in IOP from baseline (–8.3 mmHg with the lens vs –7.8 mmHg with the drops). No patients reported severe treatment-related adverse events in either group.

Lens wearers completed the Contact Lens Dry Eye Questionnaire, which indicated a 38% increase in comfort level and a 40% improvement in dry eye symptoms compared with base contact lenses.

“This technology holds promise for enhancing patient compliance, increasing bioavailability, and potentially minimizing side effects in glaucoma management,” the researchers concluded.

Reference

Gaddie I. Clinical success with sustained delivery of bimatoprost and hyaluronic acid from contact lenses using digital printing technology to manage glaucoma. Presented at the 2024 American Academy of Optometry Annual Meeting; November 6-9, 2024, Indianapolis, Indiana.