Current progress in preservative-free topical ophthalmic formulations

Ophthalmic formulations have enormous applications in treating several ocular disorders. Principally, the ocular formulations must be sterile. Hence, preservatives are conventionally added to it to maintain its sterility (especially in the case of multiple-dose formulations). However, in many instances, preservatives present in the ophthalmic formulations were reported to be potential reasons for side effects, including ocular inflammation, corneal damage, conjunctival injury, or impairment of ocular appendages, to name a few. Hence, recently, the concept of preservative-free ophthalmic formulations (PFOFs) has been advocated to overcome these side effects, especially in the case of long-term ocular therapy. This review cross-talks the current research and development standings of PFOFs, emerging novel PFOFs, their current market positioning, the regulatory, clinical, and intellectual property status. The review also aims to expound on the prime areas where PFOFs are finding their applications, with a special focus on factors limiting their development and possible resolutions.