Microneedles for various ocular diseases

Eye disorders and injuries are a major clinical problem all over the world. The presence of ocular obstacles and clearance systems makes safe and effective drug administration to the eye difficult. Traditional eye drops, gels, and ointments are most commonly used in ordinary practice. Unfortunately, patients typically do not tolerate them well because of the need for regular use as well as the discomfort during application. As a result, innovative drug delivery methods with improved biopharmaceutical properties are the focus of continuing scientific research. Microtechnology advancements in recent years have resulted in a significant advancement in the creation of microneedle-based devices as an alternate, noninvasive method of giving medications to the eye. The goal of this chapter is to present the most recent advancements in the field of obtaining microneedle ocular patches. The chapter presents the most essential manufacturing technologies, microneedle classification, and research findings on the ophthalmic application of microneedles. Furthermore, insights into the beneficial therapeutic applications that MNs can bring to various ocular illnesses are presented. Glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, uveitis, retinal vascular occlusion, and retinitis pigmentosa are the most commonly discussed.