WO2023201315A2

WO2023201315A2 - Ophthalmic agent in preservative removal device

Info

Publication number: WO2023201315A2
Application number: PCT/US2023/065750
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael T. Malanga; Srini Venkatesh
Original assignee: TearClear Corp.
Priority date: 2022-04-14
Filing date: 2023-04-13
Publication date: 2023-10-19
Also published as: WO2023201315A3

Abstract

Provided herein are devices and methods for removing a preservative from a solution, suspension, or emulsion comprising an ophthalmic agent, which substantially maintains one or more activity of the ophthalmic agent after passing through a polymeric matrix in the device.

Description

OPHTHALMIC AGENT IN PRESERVATIVE REMOVAL DEVICE

CROSS-REFERENCE

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U. S. Provisional Application No. 63/331, 142 filed April 14, 2022, and U.S. Provisional ApplicationNo. 63/449,538 filed March 2, 2023, which are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Many ophthalmic solutions, suspensions, and emulsions for reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) in an eye comprise an ophthalmic agent and one or more preservatives to protect against contamination and to allow for long-term storage and use without refrigeration. However, the preservatives in the solution, suspension, and emulsion may cause corneal toxicity, ocular surface disease, irritation, or other unwanted side effects in the affected eye when administered to the affected eye. Thus, there is a need for systems and devices for delivering ophthalmic solution, suspension, and emulsion with little to no preservatives while the activity of the ophthalmic agent is maintained even after storage without refrigeration for long durations.

SUMMARY

[0003] Provided herein are methods and devices for dispensing an ophthalmic formulation comprising an ophthalmic agent and a preservative that removes the preservative as the ophthalmic formulation is dispensed while retaining an activity of an ophthalmic agent in the dispensed formulation. As the preservative stays in the formulation until the formulation is dispensed through a polymeric matrix, the formulation as dispensed as described herein can maintain the sterility, reduce the risk for ocular infection, allow for a multi-dose use delivery format that can be stored at room temperature or without a need for refrigeration, while reducing unwanted side effects and maintaining the activity of the ophthalmic agent once delivered to the eye.

[0004] In one aspect, provided is a method for providing a hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprising: providing a solution, suspension, or emulsion comprising the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent and a preservative; and providing a polymeric matrix, the polymeric matrix configured such that an activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is substantially maintained and the preservative is selectively removed in the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix is configured such that the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix maintains at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90% of an activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix is configured such that the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix maintains less than 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, or 10% of the preservative as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises reducing an intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye. In some embodiments, the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises treating ocular hypertension, or open angle glaucoma, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises improving visual acuity. In some embodiments, the reducing IOP comprises reducing IOP by at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 mmHg. In some embodiments, the reducing IOP comprises reducing IOP to 21 , 20, 19, or 18 mmHg or lower. In some embodiments, the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises maintaining the intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye below at least 25, 24, 23, 22, or 21 mmHg. In some embodiments, the reduction in the intraocular pressure is measured by applanation tonometry. In some embodiments, the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix reduces IOP within 2 mmHg as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises maintaining the intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye below at least 25, 24, 23, 22, or 21 mmHg. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises latanoprost, timolol, brinzolamide, brimonidine, travoprost, bimatoprost, netarsudil, latanoprost bunod, dorzolamide, or aceclidine, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises latanoprost, bimatoprost, dexamethasone, cyclosporine, travoprost, or a prostaglandin analog drug, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is less than 500 millimolar. In some embodiments, a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is between 0.01% (w/w) and 1.5% (w/w). In some embodiments, a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is between 0.01% (w/w) and 0.6% (w/w). In some embodiments, a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is between 0.05% (w/w) and 0.3% (w/w). In some embodiments, a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is less than 0.3% (w/w). In some embodiments, the preservative is benzalkonium chloride. In some embodiments, a concentration of the preservative is less than 0.05% (w/w). In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix is a polymeric hydrogel. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix comprises crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone, crosslinked polyethylene oxide, crosslinked polyacrylamides, crosslinked copolymers of methacrylic acid, polyacrylic acid, or copolymers selected from poly (acrylic acid-co-acrylamide), or poly (methacrylic acid-co-acrylamide), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix comprises a hydrogel prepared from polyacrylamide crosslinked with at least one crosslinking monomer selected from N,N’-methylenebis(acrylamide) (MB AM), triacrylamido triazine (TATZ), SR 351, or SR9035; and the crosslinked polyacrylamide is modified with at least one modifying monomer selected from methyl methacrylate (MAA), 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS), 2- sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM), acrylic acid (AA), orvinylphosphonic acid (VP). In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix is hydrogel prepared from polyacrylamide crosslinked with at least one crosslinking monomer selected from N,N’-methylenebis(acrylamide) (MB AM), triacrylamido triazine (TATZ), SR 351, or SR9035; the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is isolated; and the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is modified with at least one modifying monomer selected from methyl methacrylate (MAA), 2 -acrylamido-2 -methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS), 2 -sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM), acrylic acid (AA), orvinylphosphonic acid (VP). In some embodiments, the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is isolated in the form of spherical beads. In some embodiments, the at least one modifying monomer comprises 2- acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS) or 2-sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM). In some embodiments, the solution, suspension, or emulsion further comprises a complexing agent. In some embodiments, the complexing agent and the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent form an inclusion compound. In some embodiments, the complexing agent is configured to reduce an affinity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agentforthe polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the complexing agent comprises a cyclodextrin. In some embodiments, the cyclodextrin is sized to host the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent within a hydrophobic interiorof the cyclodextrin. In some embodiments, the cyclodextrin is at least one of (2-Hydroxypropyl)-a-cyclodextrin, (2- Hydroxypropyl)-P-cyclodextrin, (2-Hydroxypropyl)-y-cyclodextrin, a-cyclodextrin, P- cyclodextrin, y -cyclodextrin, methyl-a-cyclodextrin, methyl-P-cyclodextrin, methyl-y- cyclodextrin, dimethyl-beta-cyclodextrin, highly sulphated-beta-cyclodextrin, 6-monodeoxy-6- N-mono(3 -hydroxy )propylamino-beta-cyclodextrin, or a randomly or selectively substituted alpha, beta or gamma cyclodextrin. In some embodiments, a concentration of the complexing agent is less than 200 micromolar. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix comprises an active matrix component and an inactive matrix component. In some embodiments, the inactive matrix component has substantially no affinity for the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent or the preservative. In some embodiments, the active polymeric matrix component is a polymeric hydrogel. In some embodiments, the inactive polymeric matrix component is a polyolefin. In some embodiments, the polyolefin is a polyethylene, polypropylene or copolymers thereof. In some embodiments, the polyolefin is a low-density polyethylene (LDPE). [0005] In one aspect, provided is a method for providing an ophthalmic agent comprising: applying pressure to a compressible bottle comprising an extended outlet, a polymeric matrix within the extended outlet, and a reservoir holding a solution, suspension, or emulsion comprising the ophthalmic agent and a preservative; and forming a drop comprising the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix, the polymeric matrix configured such that an activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is substantially maintained and the preservative is selectively removedin the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix is configured such that the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix maintains at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90% of an activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix is configured such that the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix maintains less th an 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, or 10% of the preservative as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises reducing an intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye. In some embodiments, the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises treating ocular hypertension, or open angle glaucoma, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises improving visual acuity. In some embodiments, the reducing IOP comprises reducing IOP by at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 mmHg. In some embodiments, the reducing IOP comprises reducing IOP to 21 , 20, 19, or 18 mmHg or lower. In some embodiments, the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises maintaining the intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye below at least 25, 24, 23, 22, or 21 mmHg. In some embodiments, the reduction in the intraocular pressure is measured by applanation tonometry. In some embodiments, the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix reduces IOP within 2 mmHg as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises maintaining the intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye below at least 25, 24, 23, 22, or 21 mmHg. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises latanoprost, timolol, brinzolamide, brimonidine, travoprost, bimatoprost, netarsudil, latanoprost bunod, dorzolamide, or aceclidine, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises latanoprost, bimatoprost, dexamethasone, cyclosporine, travoprost, or a prostaglandin analog drug, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is less than 500 millimolar. In some embodiments, a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is between 0.01% (w/w) and 1.5% (w/w). In some embodiments, a concentration ofthe hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is between 0.01% (w/w) and 0.6% (w/w). In some embodiments, a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is between 0.05% (w/w) and 0.3% (w/w). In some embodiments, a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is less than 0.3% (w/w). In some embodiments, the preservative is benzalkonium chloride. In some embodiments, a concentration of the preservative is less than 0.05% (w/w). In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix is a polymeric hydrogel. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix comprises crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone, crosslinked polyethylene oxide, crosslinked polyacrylamides, crosslinked copolymers of methacrylic acid, polyacrylic acid, or copolymers selected from poly (acrylic acid-co-acrylamide), or poly (methacrylic acid-co-acrylamide), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix comprises a hydrogel prepared from polyacrylamide crosslinked with at least one crosslinking monomer selected from N,N’-methylenebis(acrylamide) (MB AM), triacrylamido triazine (TATZ), SR 351, or SR9035; and the crosslinked polyacrylamide is modified with at least one modifying monomer selected from methyl methacrylate (MAA), 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS), 2- sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM), acrylic acid (AA), orvinylphosphonic acid (VP). In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix is hydrogel prepared from polyacrylamide crosslinked with at least one crosslinking monomer selected from N,N’ -methylenebis(acrylamide) (MB AM), triacrylamido triazine (TATZ), SR 351, or SR9035; the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is isolated; and the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is modified with at least one modifying monomer selected from methyl methacrylate (MAA), 2-acrylamido-2 -methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS), 2 -sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM), acrylic acid (AA), orvinylphosphonic acid (VP). In some embodiments, the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is isolated in the form of spherical beads. In some embodiments, the at least one modifying monomer comprises 2- acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS) or 2-sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM). In some embodiments, the solution, suspension, or emulsion further comprises a complexing agent. In some embodiments, the complexing agent and the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent form an inclusion compound. In some embodiments, the complexing agent is configured to reduce an affinity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent for the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the complexing agent comprises a cyclodextrin. In some embodiments, the cyclodextrin is sized to host the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent within a hydrophobic interiorof the cyclodextrin. In some embodiments, the cyclodextrin is at least one of (2-Hydroxypropyl)-a-cyclodextrin, (2- Hydroxypropyl)-P-cyclodextrin, (2-Hydroxypropyl)-y-cyclodextrin, a-cyclodextrin, P- cyclodextrin, y -cyclodextrin, methyl-a-cyclodextrin, methyl-P-cyclodextrin, methyl-y- cyclodextrin, dimethyl-beta-cyclodextrin, highly sulphated-beta-cyclodextrin, 6-monodeoxy-6- N-mono(3 -hydroxy )propylamino-beta-cyclodextrin, or a randomly or selectively substituted alpha, beta or gamma cyclodextrin. In some embodiments, a concentration of the complexing agent is less than 200 micromolar. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix comprises an active matrix component and an inactive matrix component. In some embodiments, the inactive matrix component has substantially no affinity for the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent or the preservative. In some embodiments, the active polymeric matrix component is a polymeric hydrogel. In some embodiments, the inactive polymeric matrix component is a polyolefin. In some embodiments, the polyolefin is a polyethylene, polypropylene or copolymers thereof. In some embodiments, the polyolefin is a low-density polyethylene (LDPE).

[0006] In one aspect, provided is a method for delivering a hydrophobic ophthalmic agent to an eye of a subject to reduce intraocular pressure comprising: applying pressure to a compressible bottle comprising an extended outlet, a polymeric matrix within the extended outlet, and a reservoir holding a solution, suspension, or emulsion comprising the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent and a preservative; and forming a drop comprising the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix, the polymeric matrix configured such that an activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is substantially maintained and the preservative is selectively removed in the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix is configured such that the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix maintains at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90% of an activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix is configured such that the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix maintains less than 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, or 10% of the preservative as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises reducing an intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye. In some embodiments, the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises treating ocular hypertension, or open angle glaucoma, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises improving visual acuity. In some embodiments, the reducing IOP comprises reducing IOP by at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 mmHg. In some embodiments, the reducing IOP comprises reducing IOP to 21 , 20, 19, or 18 mmHg or lower. In some embodiments, the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises maintaining the intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye below at least 25, 24, 23, 22, or 21 mmHg. In some embodiments, the reduction in the intraocular pressure is measured by applanation tonometry. In some embodiments, the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix reduces IOP within 2 mmHg as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises maintaining the intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye below at least 25, 24, 23, 22, or 21 mmHg. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises latanoprost, timolol, brinzolamide, brimonidine, travoprost, bimatoprost, netarsudil, latanoprost bunod, dorzolamide, or aceclidine, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises latanoprost, bimatoprost, dexamethasone, cyclosporine, travoprost, or a prostaglandin analog drug, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is less than 500 millimolar. In some embodiments, a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is between 0.01% (w/w) and 1.5% (w/w). In some embodiments, a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agentis between 0.01% (w/w) and 0.6% (w/w). In some embodiments, a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is between 0.05% (w/w) and 0.3% (w/w). In some embodiments, a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is less than 0.3% (w/w). In some embodiments, the preservative is benzalkonium chloride. In some embodiments, a concentration of the preservative is less than 0.05% (w/w). In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix is a polymeric hydrogel. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix comprises crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone, crosslinked polyethylene oxide, crosslinked polyacrylamides, crosslinked copolymers of methacrylic acid, polyacrylic acid, or copolymers selected from poly (acrylic acid-co-acrylamide), or poly (methacrylic acid-co-acrylamide), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix comprises a hydrogel prepared from polyacrylamide crosslinked with at least one crosslinking monomer selected from N,N’ -methylenebis(acrylamide) (MB AM), triacrylamido triazine (TATZ), SR 351, or SR9035; and the crosslinked polyacrylamide is modified with at least one modifying monomer selected from methyl methacrylate (MAA), 2 - acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS), 2 -sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM), acrylic acid (AA), orvinylphosphonic acid (VP). In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix is hydrogel prepared from polyacrylamide crosslinked with at least one crosslinking monomer selected from N,N’-methylenebis(acrylamide) (MB AM), triacrylamido triazine (TATZ), SR 351, or SR9035; the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is isolated; and the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is modified with at least one modifying monomer selected from methyl methacrylate (MAA), 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS), 2-sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM), acrylic acid (AA), orvinylphosphonic acid (VP). In some embodiments, the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is isolated in the form of spherical beads. In some embodiments, the at least one modifying monomer comprises 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS) or 2-sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM). In some embodiments, the solution, suspension, or emulsion further comprises a complexing agent. In some embodiments, the complexing agent and the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent form an inclusion compound. In some embodiments, the complexing agent is configured to reduce an affinity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent for the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the complexing agent comprises a cyclodextrin. In some embodiments, the cyclodextrin is sized to host the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent within a hydrophobic interior of the cyclodextrin. In some embodiments, the cyclodextrin is at least one of (2-Hydroxypropyl)-a-cyclodextrin, (2- Hydroxypropyl)-P-cyclodextrin, (2-Hydroxypropyl)-y-cyclodextrin, a-cyclodextrin, P- cyclodextrin, y -cyclodextrin, methyl-a-cyclodextrin, methyl-P-cyclodextrin, methyl-y- cyclodextrin, dimethyl-beta-cyclodextrin, highly sulphated-beta-cyclodextrin, 6-monodeoxy-6- N-mono(3 -hydroxy )propylamino-beta-cyclodextrin, or a randomly or selectively substituted alpha, beta or gamma cyclodextrin. In some embodiments, a concentration of the complexing agent is less than 200 micromolar. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix comprises an active matrix component and an inactive matrix component. In some embodiments, the inactive matrix component has substantially no affinity for the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent or the preservative. In some embodiments, the active polymeric matrix component is a polymeric hydrogel. In some embodiments, the inactive polymeric matrix component is a polyolefin. In some embodiments, the polyolefin is a polyethylene, polypropylene or copolymers thereof. In some embodiments, the polyolefin is a low-density polyethylene (LDPE).

[0007] In one aspect, provided herein is a multi-dosing delivery device for dispensing a hydrophobic ophthalmic agent, the device comprising: a bottle having an extended outlet; a polymeric matrix dispensed within the extended outlet; and a reservoir configured to hold a solution, suspension, or emulsion comprising the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent and a preservative, wherein the polymeric matrix is configured such that an activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is substantially maintained and the preservative is selectively removed in the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix. The device of claim 43, wherein the polymeric matrix is configured such that the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix maintains at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90% of an activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix is configured such that the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix maintains less than 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, or 10% of the preservative as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises reducing an intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye. In some embodiments, the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises treating ocular hypertension, or open angle glaucoma, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises improving visual acuity. In some embodiments, the reducing IOP comprises reducing IOP by at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 mm Hg. In some embodiments, the reducing IOP comprises reducing IOP to 21 , 20, 19, or 18 mmHg or lower. In some embodiments, the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises maintaining the intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eyebelow atleast 25, 24, 23, 22, or 21 mmHg. In some embodiments, the reduction in the intraocular pressure is measured by applanation tonometry. In some embodiments, the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix reduces IOP within 2 mmHg as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises latanoprost, timolol, brinzolamide, brimonidine, travoprost, bimatoprost, netarsudil, latanoprost bunod, dorzolamide, or aceclidine, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises latanoprost, bimatoprost, dexamethasone, cyclosporine, travoprost, or a prostaglandin analog drug, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is less than 500 millimolar. In some embodiments, a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is between 0.01% (w/w) and 1.5% (w/w). In some embodiments, a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is between 0.01% (w/w) and 0.6% (w/w). In some embodiments, a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is between 0.05% (w/w) and 0.3% (w/w). In some embodiments, a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is less than 0.3% (w/w). In some embodiments, the preservative is benzalkonium chloride. In some embodiments, a concentration of the preservative is less than 0.05% (w/w). In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix is a polymeric hydrogel. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix comprises crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone, crosslinked polyethylene oxide, crosslinked polyacrylamides, crosslinked copolymers of methacrylic acid, polyacrylic acid, or copolymers selected from poly (acrylic acid-co-acrylamide), or poly (methacrylic acid-co-acrylamide), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix comprises a hydrogel prepared from polyacrylamide crosslinked with at least one crosslinking monomer selected from N,N’-methylenebis(acrylamide) (MB AM), triacrylamido triazine (TATZ), SR 351, or SR9035; and the crosslinked polyacrylamide is modified with at least one modifying monomer selected from methyl methacrylate (MAA), 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS), 2- sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM), acrylic acid (AA), orvinylphosphonic acid (VP). In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix is hydrogel prepared from polyacrylamide crosslinked with at least one crosslinking monomer selected from N,N’ -methylenebis(acrylamide) (MB AM), triacrylamido triazine (TATZ), SR 351, or SR9035; the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is isolated; and the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is modified with at least one modifying monomer selected from methyl methacrylate (MAA), 2 -acrylamido-2 -methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS), 2 -sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM), acrylic acid (AA), orvinylphosphonic acid (VP). In some embodiments, the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is isolated in the form of spherical beads. In some embodiments, the at least one modifying monomer comprises 2- acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS) or 2-sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM). In some embodiments, the solution, suspension, or emulsion further comprises a complexing agent. In some embodiments, the complexing agent and the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent form an inclusion compound. In some embodiments, the complexing agent is configured to reduce an affinity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent for the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the complexing agent comprises a cyclodextrin. In some embodiments, the cyclodextrin is sized to host the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent within a hydrophobic interiorof the cyclodextrin. In some embodiments, the cyclodextrin is at least one of (2-Hydroxypropyl)-a-cyclodextrin, (2- Hydroxypropyl)-P-cyclodextrin, (2-Hydroxypropyl)-y-cyclodextrin, a-cyclodextrin, P- cyclodextrin, y -cyclodextrin, methyl-a-cyclodextrin, methyl-P-cyclodextrin, methyl-y- cyclodextrin, dimethyl-beta-cyclodextrin, highly sulphated-beta-cyclodextrin, 6-monodeoxy-6- N-mono(3 -hydroxy )propylamino-beta-cyclodextrin, or a randomly or selectively substituted alpha, beta or gamma cyclodextrin. In some embodiments, a concentration of the complexing agent is less than 200 micromolar. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix comprises an active matrix component and an inactive matrix component. In some embodiments, the inactive matrix component has substantially no affinity for the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent or the preservative. In some embodiments, the active polymeric matrix component is a polymeric hydrogel. In some embodiments, the inactive polymeric matrix component is a polyolefin. In some embodiments, the polyolefin is a polyethylene, polypropylene or copolymers thereof. In some embodiments, the polyolefin is a low-density polyethylene (LDPE).

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0008] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings described below.

[0010] FIG. 1 shows a study design for comparing administration of a commercially available formulation comprising latanoprost (with preservative) and a formulation comprising latanoprost removed by a preservative removing device (TC-002) to subjects.

[0011] FIG. 2 shows intraocular pressure (IOP) (mmHg) measured in subjects administered commercially available a formulation comprising latanoprost and a formulation comprising latanoprost removed by a preservative removing device (TC-002) at different time points. [0012] FIG. 3A shows a study design for comparing administration of a commercially available formulation comprising timolol (with preservative) and a formulation comprising timolol with the preservative removed by a preservative removing device to subjects.

[0013] FIG. 3B is shows mean trough intraocular pressure (IOP) (mmHg) measured at each assessment day in subjects administered a commercially available formulation comprising timolol (with preservative) and a formulation comprising timolol with the preservative removed by a preservative removing device.

[0014] FIG. 4A depicts a study design for comparing administration of a commercially available formulation comprising latanoprost (with preservative) and a formulation comprising latanoprost removed by a preservative removing device (TC-002) to subjects.

[0015] FIG. 4B shows a table of average of average intraocular pressure (IOP) (mmHg) measured at different timepoints in subjects administered a commercially available formulation comprising latanoprost (with preservative) and a formulation comprising latanoprost removed by a preservative removing device (TC-002). Data were measured for right eye (OD) and left eye (OS).

[0016] FIG. 4C shows a table of average change in intraocular pressure (IOP) (mmHg) measured in subjects administered a commercially available formulation comprising latanoprost (with preservative) and a formulation comprising latanoprost removed by a preservative removing device (TC-002) at different timepoints relative to a baseline of the first time point, day 1 of FIG. 4B.

[0017] FIG. 4D shows average change in intraocular pressure (IOP) (mmHg) measured in subjects administered a commercially available formulation comprising latanoprost (with preservative) and a formulation comprising latanoprost removed by a preservative removing device (TC-002) at different timepoints relative to a baseline of the first time point, day 1 of FIG. 4B. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye may become elevated with aging, disease, or injuries, or as a side effect from a medication. Increased IOP occurs when the pressure within the eye exceeds normal limits (e.g., the normal range of 10-21 mmHg). Increased IOP is commonly associated with open -angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension and may result in damage to the optic nerve and/or permanent vision loss if left untreated. Treatment to reduce increased IOP usually includes but is not limited to medication, laser treatments, and/or surgery to decrease fluids and increase drainage in the eye.

[0019] Medications for treating increased IOP often include an ophthalmic active agent and one or more preservatives. Usually, the preservatives, such as benzalkonium chloride (BAK), allow for the medication to maintain its sterility to reduce the risk for ocular infection while allowing for a multi-dose use delivery format that can be stored at room temperature or without a need for refrigeration. However, the preservatives may cause corneal toxicity, ocular surface disease (OSD), irritation, or other unwanted side effects in the affected eyewhen administered to the affected eye. In some cases, preservative-free ophthalmic formulations may be provided as a single use packet, which can be wasteful. In some cases, the preservative-free ophthalmic formulations maybe susceptible to bacterial, fungal, or viral contamination that can have deleterious effect, including but not limited to infection, vision loss, and/or death. Thus, there is a need for devices and methods for delivering ophthalmic solution, suspension, and emulsion with little to no preservatives while maintaining the activity of the ophthalmic agent even after storage without refrigeration for long durations.

[0020] Described herein are methods and devices for dispensing an ophthalmic formulation comprising an ophthalmic agent and a preservative to treat one or more ophthalmic conditions that removes the preservative as the ophthalmic formulation is dispensed while retaining an activity of an ophthalmic agent in the dispensed formulation. Provided herein are methods and devices for dispensing an ophthalmic formulation comprising an ophthalmic agent and a preservative through a polymeric matrix that removes preservative from the ophthalmic formulation while retaining the activity of the ophthalmic formulation and providing a sterile formulation that has preservative removed. As the preservative stays in the formulation until the formulation is dispensed through a polymeric matrix, the formulation as dispensed as described herein can maintain the sterility, reduce the risk for ocular infection, allow for a multi-dose use delivery format that can be stored at room temperature or without a need for refrigeration, while reducing unwanted side effects and maintaining the activity of the ophthalmic agent once delivered to the eye. The methods and devices provided herein for removal of preservatives from ophthalmic formulations allow for retaining the activity of the ophthalmic formulation (e.g., reduced increased IOP) and while providing a sterile formulation that has preservative removed. [0021] Provided herein are multi-dosing, preservative removing devices comprising a polymeric matrix configured such that the device maintains an ophthalmic formulation with one or more preservatives and one or more activities of the ophthalmic agent until the ophthalmic formulation is passed through the polymeric matrix. In some cases, the multi-dosing, preservative removing devices may be stored without refrigeration for at least 1 week, 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, 4 months, 5 months, or 6 months before the drug is dispensed. In some cases, ophthalmic formulation is dispensed using the multi-dosing, preservative removing device into an eye of a subject. In some cases, the ophthalmic formulation that has passed through the polymeric matrix has substantially similar activity as before passing through the polymeric matrix. In some cases, the activity of the formulation that has passed through the polymeric matrix has substantially similar activity as the formulation on day 0 of storage, even after storage without refrigeration for at least 1 week, 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, 4 months, 5 months, or 6 months. In some cases, the activity comprises reducing the increased IOP in the eye of the subject.

Ophthalmic Conditions

[0022] In some embodiments, the ophthalmic formulation provided herein may be used for the treatment of a disorder or conditions associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Conditions and disorders associated with elevated IOP can include glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Glaucoma can comprise open-angle glaucoma, closed-angle glaucoma, congenital glaucoma, or secondary glaucoma. A solution, suspension, or emulsion administered to the eye may be administered topically, for example, with an eye drop. In some embodiments, the compounds, or salts thereof, of the disclosure with low aqueous solubility may be formulated as aqueous suspensions.

[0023] In one aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide ophthalmic agents that change the levels of intraocular pressure IOP in an eye. Levels of intraocular pressure in an individual may naturally fluctuate and change. For example, at nighttime in a reclining position is associated with higher IOP than during the day in a sitting position. In some embodiments, a normal range of intraocular pressure is generally between 10 and 21 mmHg. IOP exceeding 21 mmHg is generally associated with problematic conditions. Conditions that cause elevated levels of IOP can include ocular hypertension, glaucoma, acute stress and/or anxiety. Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can damage the optic nerve. Glaucoma has four major types including: open-angle glaucoma, angle-closure glaucoma (or closed-angle glaucoma), congenital glaucoma, and secondary glaucoma. Elevated IOP can also be caused by or associated with excessive aqueous production or excessive aqueous humor, inadequate aqueous drainage, eye trauma, pseudoexfoliation syndrome, pigment dispersion syndrome, and corneal arcus. Moreover, individuals can be at greater risk for developing IOP depending on myriad factors. Nonlimiting factors can include age, family history of ocular hypertension or glaucoma, ethnicity, and systemic medication. Individuals having or suspected of having an increased IOP may utilize treatment that lower pressure in the eye as provided herein .

Ophthalmic Solution, Suspension, or Emulsion

[0024] Provided herein are ophthalmic formulations comprising an ophthalmic agent and a preservative. In some embodiments, ophthalmic formulations comprise a complexing agent. In some embodiments, formulations are also referred herein as solutions, suspensions, or emulsions. In some embodiments, the solutions, suspensions, or emulsions comprise a complexing agent. In some embodiments, a solution, suspension, or emulsion may be used in any of the methods described herein. The solution, suspension, or emulsion may additionally comprise one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients.

[0025] Embodiments of the present disclosure may provide an ophthalmic agent for delivery to an eye. The ophthalmic agent may be a therapeutic agent for treating increased IOP. In some embodiments, the solutions, suspensions, or emulsions comprise a preservative and an ophthalmic agent. In some embodiments, the ophthalmic agent comprises a hydrophobic ophthalmic agent. In some embodiments, the solution, suspension, or emulsion comprises a complexing agent. Ophthalmic agents may comprise compounds and salts, for use in the treatment of ophthalmic diseases. Optionally, in any embodiment, the solution, suspension, or emulsion may comprise one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients. The disclosed compounds and salts can be used, for example, forthe treatmentor prevention of vision disorders and/or for use during ophthalmological procedures forthe prevention and/or treatment of ophthalmic disorders.

Ophthalmic Agents

[0026] In one aspect, an ophthalmic agent may be used to lower intraocular pressure. In some embodiments an ophthalmic agent to lower intraocular pressure comprises a prostaglandin or prostaglandin analog, atopical P-adrenergic antagonist, a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, a cholinergics, an a-adrenergic agonist, a parasympathomimetic miotic agent, or combinations thereof. Nonlimiting examples of ophthalmic agents provided to lower IOP can include but are not limited to: brimonidine tartrate, aceclidine, bimatoprost, levobunolol hydrochloride, brimonidine tartrate/timolol maleate, brinzolamide, betaxolol hydrochloride, pilocarpine hydrochloride, apraclonidine, brinzolamide/brimonidine tartrate, travoprost, timolol maleate, latanoprost, dorzolamide hydrochloride, tafluprost, latanoprostene bunod, netarsudil, apraclonidine, and dorzolamide/timolol. In some embodiments, ophthalmic agents may be used in conjunction with a compressible bottle. Ophthalmic agents may comprise brandname drugs and formulations including, but not limited to, Alphagan, Lumigan, Betagan, Combigan, Azopt, Betoptic S, Isopto Carpine, lopidine, Simbrinza, Travatan Z, Isralol, Zalatan, Trusopt, Timoptic, Ziotan, Vesneo, Vyzulta, PRX-100, Cosopt, and other agents described herein. In some embodiments the ophthalmic agent comprises latanoprost. In some embodiments the ophthalmic agent comprisestimolol. In some embodiments the ophthalmic agent comprises brinzolamide. In some embodiments the ophthalmic agent comprises brimonidine. In some embodiments the ophthalmic agent comprises travoprost. In some embodiments the ophthalmic agent comprises bimatoprost. In some embodiments the ophthalmic agent comprises netarsudil. In some embodiments the ophthalmic agent comprises latanoprost bunod. In some embodiments the ophthalmic agent comprises dorzolamide. In some embodiments the ophthalmic agent comprises aceclidine.

[0027] The ophthalmic agents may be dissolved in aqueous solution. The solution may be sterilized and buffered to appropriate pH. In some embodiments, the solution may comprise inactive ingredients such as sodium chloride, sodium citrate, hydroxy ethyl cellulose, sodium phosphate, citric acid, sodium dihydrogen phosphate, polyoxyl 40 hydrogenated castor oil, tromethamine, boric acid, mannitol, glycerine edetate disodium, sodium hydroxide, and/or hydrochloric acid. In some embodiments, the fluid comprises a preservative in addition to an ophthalmic agent. Example preservatives include but are not limited to: benzalkonium chloride (BAK), EDTA, quaternary ammonium compounds, stabilized oxychloro complexes (Purite®), solutions of borate, sorbitol, propylene glycol, and zinc (Sofzia®), etc.

[0028] Ophthalmic agents for the treatment of, for example, ocular hypertension, glaucoma, increased intraocular pressure may be administered to a patient as a solution, suspension, or emulsion delivered to an eye topically via a compressible bottle, a dropper bottle, or similar delivery mechanism. The solution, suspension, or emulsion may be subject to contamination such as microbial, fungal, or particulate contamination, which maybe adverse to patient health. In order to prevent such contamination a preservative may be added to the solution, suspension, or emulsion; however, patient exposure to preservatives may have adverse effects to eye health. It may be advantageous to limit patient exposure to preservative by providing a preservative removing device which may remove a preservative from the solution, suspension, or emulsion while maintaining the activity of the solution, suspension, or emulsion.

[0029] In some embodiments, the ophthalmic agent to be dispensed comprises an active ingredient selected from brimonidine tartrate, aceclidine, bimatoprost, levobunolol hydrochloride, brimonidine tartrate/timolol maleate, brinzolamide, betaxolol hydrochloride, pilocarpine hydrochloride, apraclonidine, brinzolamide/brimonidine tartrate, travoprost, timolol maleate, latanoprost, dorzolamide hydrochloride, tafluprost, latanoprostene bunod, netarsudil, apraclonidine, and dorzolamide/timolol. In some embodiments, the ophthalmic agent to be dispensed comprises the active ingredient latanoprost. In some embodiments, the ophthalmic agent to be dispensed comprises the active ingredient timolol. In such embodiments, the ophthalmic agent may be an active ingredient in the treatment of elevated intraocular pressure, glaucoma, and/or ocular hypertension.

Activity of Ophthalmic Agents

[0030] In one aspect, ophthalmic agents described herein have various associated activity to treat one or more disease or disorder of the eye. In some embodiments, the ophthalmic agent comprises a hydrophobic ophthalmic agent. The activity of an ophthalmic agent can comprise changing the levels of intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye. In some embodiments, the activity of the ophthalmic agent comprisestreating ocular hypertension or glaucoma, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the activity of the ophthalmic agent comprises improving visual acuity.

[0031] In some embodiments, the activity of an ophthalmic agent reduces IOP, such as by reducing IOP to about23, about 22, about21, about20, about 19, about 18, about 17, or about 16 mmHg or lower. In some embodiments, the activity of an ophthalmic agent can comprise reducing IOP to about 16 mmHg to about 23 mmHg. In some embodiments, the activity of the ophthalmic agent reduces IOP, such as by reducing IOP by at least about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about?, about 8, about 9, or about 10 mmHg. In some embodiments, the activity of an ophthalmic agent can comprise reducing IOP by at least about 1 mmHg to about 10 mmHg. As described herein, IOP in a healthy individual can fluctuate over the course of a day. The normal baseline for IOP is between 10 and21 mmHg. In some embodiments, the activity of the ophthalmic agent maintains IOP, such as by maintaining IOP below about 25, about 24, about 23, about 22, or about 21 mmHg. In some embodiments, the activity of the ophthalmic agent maintains IOP below about 21 mmHg to below about 25 mmHg. In some embodiments, a removal of a preservative does not substantially change the activity of the ophthalmic agent. In some embodiments, a preservative-removing device delivers an ophthalmic agent maintaining an activity sub stantially similar to a preserved ophthalmic agent.

[0032] In one aspect, a concentration of an ophthalmic agent in a solution, suspension, or emulsion of the present disclosure can be from about 0.01% (w/w) to about 1.5% (w/w), about 0.03% (w/w) to about 1.4% (w/w) about 0.05% (w/w) to about 1.3% (w/w), about 0.1% (w/w) to about 1.1 % (w/w), about 0.2% (w/w) to about 1.0 % (w/w), about 0.3% (w/w) to about 0.9% (w/w), about 0.4% (w/w) to about 0.8% (w/w), or about 0.5% (w/w) to about 0.7% (w/w). In some embodiments, the concentration of the ophthalmic agent in the solution, suspension, or emulsion can be between 0.01% (w/w) and 0.6% (w/w). In some embodiments, the concentration of the ophthalmic agent in the solution, suspension, or emulsion can be between 0.05% (w/w) and 0.3% (w/w). In some embodiments, the concentration of the ophthalmic agent in the solution, suspension, or emulsion canbe less than 0.05% (w/w). In some embodiments, the concentration of the ophthalmic agent in the solution, suspension, or emulsion can be about 0.25% (w/w) to about 0.5% (w/w). In some embodiments, the concentration of the ophthalmic agent in the solution, suspension, or emulsion can be about 0.15% (w/w) to about 0.2% (w/w). In some embodiments, the concentration of the ophthalmic agent in the solution, suspension, or emulsion can be from about 1 millimolar to about 1000 millimolar, about 100 millimolar to about 900 millimolar, about 200 millimolar to about 800 millimolar, about 300 millimolar to about 700 millimolar, about 400 millimolar to about 600 millimolar, about 100 millimolar, about 200 millimolar, about 300 millimolar, about 400 millimolar, about 500 millimolar, about 600 millimolar, about 700 millimolar, about 800 millimolar, about 900 millimolar, or about 1000 millimolar. In some embodiments, the concentration of the ophthalmic agent in the solution, suspension, or emulsion is less than about 1000 millimolar, about 750 millimolar, about 500 millimolar, about 250 millimolar, or about 100 millimolar.

[0033] In some embodiments, the preservative removing device comprises a multi-dosing preservative-removal device. In some embodiments, a preservative removal device can be used multiple times to deliver an uncontaminated, preservative-free ophthalmic agent to the eye of an individual. In some embodiments, the preservative removal device can maintain the activity of the ophthalmic agent without refrigeration for a period of more than about 1 month, about 2 months, about 3 months, about 4 months, about 5 months, or about 6 months or more. In some embodiments, the preservative-removal device maintains the activity of the ophthalmic agent without refrigeration for about 1 month to about 6 months or more. In some embodiments, the preservative removal device maintains the activity of the ophthalmic agent while maintaining the safety of the ophthalmic agent. In some embodiments, the preservative removing device comprises a portable device. In some embodiments, the portable device canbe held in a hand of an individual.

[0034] Activity of an ophthalmic agent canbe measured with instrumentation and/or an individual’s ability to distinguish shapesand the details of objects at given distances with corrective lenses. Methods of measuring the activity of an ophthalmic agent can comprise measurement of fluid pressure in an eye such as by using applanation tonometry (e.g., Goldmann Applanation Tonometry), non-contact tonometry or air-puff tonometry (e.g., the ocular response analyzer), pneumotonometry (e.g., Langham ocular blood flow pneumotonometer), rebound tonometry (e.g., iCare One), dynamic contour tonometry (e.g., dynamic contour tonometer), applanation resonance tonometry (BioResonator ART), best- corrected visual acuity (BCVA), biomicroscopy (e.g., slit-lamp biomicroscopy), paychymetry, dilated ophthalmoscopy, perimetry, subject-rated drop comfort/tolerability, and/or blood samples. In some embodiments, activity of an ophthalmic agent can be measured using applanation tonometry (e.g., Goldmann Applanation Tonometry). In some embodiments, activity of an ophthalmic agent can be measured using best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). In some embodiments, activity of an ophthalmic agent can be measured using biomicroscopy (e.g., slit-lamp biomicroscopy). In some embodiments, activity of an ophthalmic agent can be measured using applanation tonometry (e.g., paychymetry, dilated ophthalmoscopy, perimetry, subject-rated drop comfort/tolerability, and/or blood samples). In some embodiments, activity of an ophthalmic agent can be measured using paychymetry. In some embodiments, activity of an ophthalmic agent can be measured using dilated ophthalmoscopy. In some embodiments, activity of an ophthalmic agent can be measured using perimetry. In some embodiments, activity of an ophthalmic agent can be measured using subject-rated drop comfort/tolerability. In some embodiments, activity of an ophthalmic agent can be measured using blood samples of a subject. Preservative

[0035] The present disclosure provides formulations comprising one or more preservatives for solutions, suspensions, or emulsions of ophthalmic agents of the present disclosure. Preservatives may comprise compounds and salts, for use as preservatives for solutions, emulsions, or suspensions of ophthalmic agents. The one or more preservatives may for example prevent microbial and/or fungal growth causing harmful effects (e.g., permanent vision loss, death). The one or more preservatives may for example prevent physical or chemical deterioration of an ophthalmic agent.

[0036] Often, preservatives (e.g., benzalkonium chloride (BAK)) may keep products sterile, preventing microbial growth such as bacteria, fungus, and mold and reducing concerns of contamination. Usually, the use of preservatives may eliminate the need for special handling requirements which can reduce harmful environmental effects, enhance shelf life after opening, and cutback on the need to use unusual packaging. Use of preservatives may ensure the active ingredient concentration stays in solution. Furthermore, preservatives may eliminate or reduce the need for surfactants (e.g., cremophore), maintain drug concentration between doses, and eliminates the need for less favorable formulations (e.g., emulsion). On the other hand, preservatives administered to the eye of a subject can damage the ocular surface, increase inflammation, and reduce surgical success. [0037] Non-limiting examples of preservative agents can include benzalkonium chloride, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid(EDTA), quaternary ammonium compounds, stabilized oxychloro complexes (Purite®), solutions of borate, sorbitol, propylene glycol, and zinc (Sofzia®), etc. In some embodiments, a formulation of the disclosure comprises the preservative of quaternary ammonium compounds. In some embodiments the preservative comprises benzalkonium chloride (BAK). In some embodiments, BAK can be present in the solution, suspension, or emulsion of the ophthalmic agent at a concentration of about 0.01 mg/mL to about 0.5 mg/mL.

[0038] The Purite® preservative system includes Stabilized Oxy chloro Complex (SOC), a combination of chlorine dioxide, chlorite, and chlorate. When exposed to light, SOC dissociates into water, oxygen, sodium, and chlorine free radicals which cause oxidation of intracellular lipids and glutathione, interrupting vital enzymes for cell function and maintenance. For preservatives such as Purite® which produce chlorine free radicals, the particulate plug of the disclosure can include a material that has a high affinity for free radicals such as activated charcoal or antioxidants such as vitamin E.

[0039] The SofZia® preservative system in TravatanZ (Alcon Laboratories, Fort Worth, Texas) contains borate, sorbitol, propylene glycol, and zinc. Without intending to be bound by theory, it is believed that the preservative effect is from a combination of borate and zinc. For preservatives including borate and zinc, such as SofZia®, the particulate plug of the disclosure can include a metal chelating agent such as EDTA, anionic hydrogels that can extract cationic zinc through electrostatic interactions, cationic hydrogels or resins that can extract anionic borate ions through electrostatic interactions, or a neutralizing agent that can neutralize boric acid.

[0040] In some embodiments, removing a preservative from an ophthalmic medication may improve various signs and symptoms of OSD. In some cases, signs of OSD include but are not limited to anterior/posterior blepharitis, eczema, hyperaemia, follicles, fluorescein staining, and superficial punctuate keratitis. In some cases, symptoms of OSD include but are not limited to pain/discomfort during installation, foreign body sensations, stinging/burning sensations, dry eyes, tearing, and eyelid itching.

Complexing Agent

[0041] In some embodiments, solutions, suspensions, or emulsions of the present disclosure further comprise a complexing agent. In some embodiments, the compound or salt of an ophthalmic agent of the disclosure exhibits high affinity for the matrix material and the addition of a complexing agent reduces the affinity of the ophthalmic agent for the matrix material. In some embodiments, the solution, suspension, or emulsion comprises a cyclodextrin. [0042] In some embodiments, the ophthalmic agent is hydrophobic. In some embodiments, a polymeric matrix material designed to absorb a preservative such as benzalkonium chloride (BAK) may also absorb a hydrophobic ophthalmic agent. A complexing agent may decrease the affinity of the ophthalmic agent for the polymeric matrix. Utilizing a complexing agent, such as cyclodextrin, may change the relative hydrophobicity (hydrophilicity) of the ophthalmic agent relative to the polymer matrix material, thereby decreasing or reducing the affinity of the ophthalmic agent for the matrix. In some embodiments, the complexing agent and the ophthalmic agent can form an inclusion compound. An inclusion compound is a complex in which one component (host) forms a cavity in which molecular entities of a second chemical species (guest) are located. In some embodiments the complexing agent is configured to host the ophthalmic agent.

[0043] In some embodiments, the cyclodextrin may be (2-hydroxypropyl)-P-cyclodextrin. The cyclodextrin may be (2-hydroxypropyl)-a-cyclodextrin, (2-hydroxypropyl)-y-cyclodextrin, a- cyclodextrin, P -cyclodextrin, y-cyclodextrin, methyl-a-cyclodextrin, methyl-P-cyclodextrin, methyl-y-cyclodextrin, or another substituted cyclic glucose polymer. In other embodiments, the cyclodextrin is chosen from dimethyl-beta-cyclodextrin, highly sulphated-beta-cyclodextrin, 6- monodeoxy-6-N-mono(3 -hydroxy )propylamino-beta-cyclodextrin or a combination thereof. In other embodiments, the cyclodextrin is a randomly or selectively substituted at the hydroxyls with any chemistry and to any required degree for alpha, beta or gamma or any ring size cyclodextrin. In other embodiments other types of and degrees of substitution on the cyclodextrin rings are also known and possible. Any of these can used as complexing agents. In some embodiments commercial products are possible such as CAVASOL® W7 HP PHARMA is pharmaceutical grade hydroxypropyl -beta-cyclodextrin from Wacker Chemie AG. CAVASOL® W7 HP PHARMA is a highly soluble beta-cyclodextrin derivative.

Hydroxypropyl Betadex is another example of this same commercial type cyclodextrin. [0044] In some embodiments, the solution, suspension, or emulsion may comprise the cyclodextrin at a concentration of 127 pM (micromolar). In some embodiments, the solution, suspension, or emulsion may comprise the cyclodextrin at a concentration of greater than 1 pM, 2 pM, 5 pM, 10 pM, 20 pM, 50 pM, 100 pM, or more. In some embodiments, the solution, suspension, or emulsion may comprise the cyclodextrin at a concentration of less than 500 pM, or it may be at a concentration of about 1 mM (millimolar), 2 mM, 5 mM, 10 mM, 20 mM, 50 mM, 100 mM, or less.

[0045] In some embodiments, the complexing agent may comprise a mixture of cyclodextrins comprising one or more cyclodextrins disclosed elsewhere herein. Excipients

[0046] Devices and methods of the present disclosure may comprise formulating the solution, suspension, or emulsion with one or more inert, pharmaceutically -acceptable excipients. Liquid compositions include, for example, solutions in which a compound is dissolved, emulsions comprising a compound, or a solution containing liposomes or micelles comprising an ophthalmic agent as disclosed herein. These compositions can also contain minor amounts of nontoxic, auxiliary substances, such as wetting or emulsifying agents, pH buffering agents, tonicity agents and other pharmaceutically -acceptable additives.

[0047] In some embodiments, solutions, suspensions, or emulsions of the present disclosure further comprise one or more physiologically acceptable carriers including excipients and auxiliaries which facilitate processing of the pharmaceutical agent into preparations which are used pharmaceutically. Proper formulation is dependent upon the route of administration chosen.

[0048] Pharmaceutically acceptable carriers include, for example, aqueous solutions such as water or physiologically buffered saline or other solvents or vehicles such as glycols, glycerol, oils such as olive oil, or organic esters. The excipients can be chosen, for example, to effect delayed release of an agent or to selectively target one or more cells, tissues or organs. The composition can also be present in a solution suitable for topical administration, such as an eye drop.

[0049] Some examples of materials which can serve as pharmaceutically acceptable carriers include: (1) sugars, such as lactose, glucose and sucrose; (2) starches, such as corn starch and potato starch; (3) cellulose, and its derivatives, such as sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, hypromellose, Methocel, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose and cellulose acetate; (4) powdered tragacanth; (5) malt; (6) gelatin; (7) talc; (8) excipients, such as cocoa butter and suppository waxes; (9) oils, such as peanut oil, cottonseed oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, olive oil, com oil and soybean oil; (10) glycols, such as propylene glycol; (11) polyols, such as glycerin, sorbitol, mannitol and polyethylene glycol; (12) esters, such as ethyl oleate and ethyl laurate; (13) agar; (14) buffering agents, such as magnesium hydroxide and aluminum hydroxide; (15) alginic acid; (16) pyrogen-free water; (17) isotonic saline; (18) Ringer's solution; (19) ethyl alcohol; (20) phosphate buffer solutions; and (21) other non -toxic compatible substances employedin pharmaceutical formulations.

[0050] In some embodiments, the solutions, suspensions, or emulsions of the disclosure may include one or more additional excipients. The amount of the excipient in a pharmaceutical formulation of the disclosure canbe about 0.01% to about 1000% by mass of the compoundin the solution, suspension, or emulsion. The amount of the excipient in a solution, suspension, or emulsion, of the disclosure canbe between 0.01% and 1000%, between 0.1% and 100%, between 1% and 50%, between 0.01% and 1%, between 10% and 100%, or between 500% and 1000% by mass of the compound in the solution, suspension, or emulsion.

[0051] The amount of the excipient in a solution, suspension, or emulsion of the present disclosure can be about 0.01% and 1000%, between 0.1% and 100%, between l% and 50%, between 0.01% and 1%, between 10% and 100, or between 500% and 1000% by mass or by volume of the unit dosage form.

[0052] The ratio of a compound of an ophthalmic agent of the present disclosure to an excipient in a pharmaceutical formulation of the present disclosure can be about 100 : about 1, about 50 : about20 : about 1, about 5 : about 1, about 1 : about 5, or about 1 : about 10. The ratio of a compound of an ophthalmic agent to an excipient in a solution, suspension, or emulsion of the present disclosure canbe within the range of between about 100 : about 1 and about 1 to about 10, between about 10 : about 1 and about 1 : about 1 , between about 5 : about 1 and about 2 : about 1 .

[0053] In some embodiments, a solution, suspension, or emulsion of the present disclosure comprises an agent for adjusting the pH of the formulation. In some embodiments, the agent for adjusting the pH could be an acid, e.g., hydrochloric acid or boric acid, or a base, e.g., sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide. In some embodiments, the agent for adjusting the pH is an acid such as boric acid. The formulation may comprise about 0.05 wt% to about 5 wt%, about 0.1% to about 4%, about 0.1% to about 3 wt%, about 0.1 wt% to about 2 wt%, or about 0.1 wt% to about 1 wt% of an agent for adjusting the pH.

[0054] Solutions, suspensions, or emulsions of the disclosure can be formulated at any suitable pH. In some embodiments, the pH of the solution, suspension, or emulsion comprises about 4, about4.5, about 5, about 5.5, about 6, about 6.5, about ?, about ?.5, about 8, about 8.5, or about 9 pH units. In some embodiments, the pH of the solution, suspension, or emulsion is from about 4 to about 10, about 5 to about 9, about 6 to about 8, about 7 to about 8, about 7.2 to about 7.8, about 7.3 to about 7.5, or about 7.35 to about 7.45. In some embodiments the pH of the solution, suspension, or emulsion is about 7.4.

[0055] In some embodiments, the addition of an excipient to a pharmaceutical formulation of the present disclosure can increase or decrease the viscosity of the composition by at least 5%, at at least 25%, atleast 50%, atleast 75%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or atleast 99%. In some embodiments, the addition of an excipient to a pharmaceutical formulation of the present disclosure can increase or decrease the viscosity of the composition by no greater than 5%, no greaterthan 25%, no greaterthan 50%, no greater than 75%, nogreaterthan 90%, no greater than 95%, or no greater than 99%. Examples of ranges which the viscosity change falls within can be created by combining any two of the preceding percentages (e.g., by 5% to 99%) [0056] In some embodiments, an excipient that increases a viscosity may comprise polyvinyl alcohol, poloxamers, hyaluronic acid, carbomers, and polysaccharides, that is, cellulose derivatives, hydroxymethyl cellulose, hypromellose, Methacel, gellan gum, and xanthangum. In some embodiments, an excipient that increases mucoadhesive properties may be added. Excipients that increase mucoadhesion may include polyacrylic acid, hyaluronic acid, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, lectins, and chitosan.

[0057] In some embodiments, solutions, suspensions, or emulsions of the present disclosure further comprise an agent for adjusting the osmolarity of the solution, suspension, or emulsion, e.g., mannitol, sodium chloride, sodium sulfate, dextrose, potassium chloride, glycerin, propylene glycol, calcium chloride, and magnesium chloride. In some embodiments, the solution, suspension, or emulsion comprises from about 0.1 wt% to about 10 wt%, about 1 wt% to about 5 wt%, about 1 wt% to about 4 wt%, or about 1 wt% to about 3 wt% of an agent for adjusting the osmolarity of the solution, suspension, or emulsion. In some embodiments, the solution, suspension, or emulsion of the disclosure has an osmolarity from about 10 mOsmto about 1000 mOsm, about200 mOsm to about400mOsm, about250mOsm to about350 mOsm or about 290 mOsm to about 310m Osm.

[0058] In some embodiments, solutions, suspensions, or emulsions of the present disclosure further comprise a buffering agent, such as tromethamine, potassium phosphate, sodium phosphate, saline sodium citrate buffer (SSC), acetate, saline, physiological saline, phosphate buffer saline(PBS), 4-2-hydroxyethyl-l -piperazineethanesulfonic acid buffer (HEPES), 3-(N- morpholinojpropanesulfonic acid buffer (MOPS), and piperazine -N,N'-bis(2-ethanesulfonic acid) buffer (PIPES), sodium acetate-boric acid stock solution, boric acid-sodium carbonate with sodium chloride solution, boric acid-sodium borate buffer, sodium and potassium phosphate buffers, boric acid-sodium carbonate with potassium chloride, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the solution, suspension, or emulsion comprises from about 0.05 wt% to about 5 wt%, about 0.1 wt% to about 4 wt%, about 0.1 wt% to about 3 wt%, about 0.1 wt% to about 2 wt%, or about 0.1 wt% to about 1 wt% of an agent for buffering the solution, suspension, or emulsion.

[0059] In some embodiments, the solution emulsion or suspension provided herein comprises an alcohol as an excipient. Non-limiting examples of alcohols include ethanol, propylene glycol, glycerol, polyethylene glycol, chlorobutanol, isopropanol, xylitol, sorbitol, maltitol, erythritol, threitol, arabitol, ribitol, mannitol, galactilol, fucitol, lactitol, and combinations thereof. Salts

[0060] Pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salts can be formed with inorganic acids and organic acids. Inorganic acids from which salts can be derived include, for example, hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, phosphoric acid, and the like. Organic acids from which salts can be derived include, for example, acetic acid, propionic acid, glycolic acid, pyruvic acid, oxalic acid, maleic acid, malonic acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, cinnamic acid, mandelic acid, methanesulfonic acid, ethanesulfonic acid, p -toluenesulfonic acid, salicylic acid, and the like. Pharmaceutically acceptable base addition salts can be formed with inorganic and organic bases. Inorganic bases from which salts can be derived include, for example, sodium, potassium, lithium, ammonium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, aluminum, and the like. Organic bases from which salts can be derived include, for example, primary, secondary, and tertiary amines, substituted amines including naturally occurring substituted amines, cyclic amines, basic ion exchange resins, and the like, specifically such as isopropylamine, trimethylamine, diethylamine, triethylamine, tripropylamine, and ethanolamine. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutically acceptable base addition salt is chosen from ammonium, potassium, sodium, calcium, and magnesium salts.

[0061] The compounds may be synthesized using conventional techniques. Advantageously, these compounds are conveniently synthesized from readily available starting materials. Synthetic chemistry transformations and methodologies useful in synthesizing the compounds described herein are known in the art.

[0062] The present disclosure provides salts of any one or both of an ophthalmic agent and a preservative. Pharmaceutically-acceptable salts include, for example, acid-addition salts and base-addition salts. The acid that is added to the compound to form an acid-addition salt can be an organic acid or an inorganic acid. A base that is added to the compound to form a base- addition salt can be an organic base or an inorganic base. In some embodiments, a pharmaceutically-acceptable salt is a metal salt.

[0063] Metal salts can arise from the addition of an inorganic base to a compound of the present disclosure. The inorganic base consists of a metal cation paired with a basic counterion, such as, for example, hydroxide, carbonate, bicarbonate, or phosphate. The metal can be an alkali metal, alkaline earth metal, transition metal, or main group metal. In some embodiments, the metal is lithium, sodium, potassium, cesium, cerium, magnesium, manganese, iron, calcium, strontium, cobalt, titanium, aluminum, copper, cadmium, or zinc.

[0064] In some embodiments, a metal salt is an ammonium salt, a lithium salt, a sodium salt, a potassium salt, a cesium salt, a cerium salt, a magnesium salt, a manganese salt, an iron salt, a calcium salt, a strontium salt, a cobalt salt, a titanium salt, an aluminum salt, a copper salt, a cadmium salt, or a zinc salt.

[0065] Ammonium salts can arise from the addition of ammonia or an organic amine to a compound of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the organic amine is triethyl amine, diisopropyl amine, ethanol amine, diethanol amine, triethanol amine, morpholine, N- methylmorpholine, piperidine, N-methylpiperidine, N-ethylpiperidine, dibenzylamine, piperazine, pyridine, pyrazole, pipyrazole, imidazole, pyrazine, or pipyrazine.

[0066] In some embodiments, an ammonium salt is a triethyl amine salt, a diisopropyl amine salt, an ethanol amine salt, a diethanol amine salt, a triethanol amine salt, a morpholine salt, an N-methylmorpholine salt, a piperidine salt, an N-methylpiperidine salt, an N-ethylpiperidine salt, a dibenzylamine salt, a piperazine salt, a pyridine salt, a pyrazole salt, an imidazole salt, or a pyrazine salt.

[0067] Acid addition salts can arise from the addition of an acid to a compound of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the acid is organic. In some embodiments, the acid is inorganic. In some embodiments, the acid is hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, hydroiodic acid, nitric acid, nitrous acid, sulfuric acid, sulfurous acid, a phosphoric acid, isonicotinic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, tartaric acid, ascorbic acid, gentisinic acid, gluconic acid, glucuronic acid, saccharic acid, formic acid, benzoic acid, glutamic acid, pantothenic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, fumaric acid, succinic acid, methanesulfonic acid, ethanesulfonic acid, benzenesulfonic acid, p -toluenesulfonic acid, citric acid, oxalic acid, or maleic acid. [0068] In some embodiments, the salt is a hydrochloride salt, a hydrobromide salt, a hydroiodide salt, a nitrate salt, a nitrite salt, a sulfate salt, a sulfite salt, a phosphate salt, isonicotinate salt, a lactate salt, a salicylate salt, a tartrate salt, an ascorbate salt, a gentisinate salt, a gluconate salt, a glucuronate salt, a saccharate salt, a formate salt, a benzoate salt, a glutamate salt, a pantothenate salt, an acetate salt, a propionate salt, a butyrate salt, a fumarate salt, a succinate salt, a methanesulfonate (mesylate) salt, an ethanesulfonate salt, a benzenesulfonate salt, a p -toluenesulfonate salt, a citrate salt, an oxalate salt , or a maleate salt. [0069] The methods and formulations described herein include the use of amorphous forms as well as crystalline forms (also known as polymorphs). Active metabolites of compounds or salts of any one of the compounds of the present disclosure having the same type of activity are included in the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, the compounds described herein can exist in unsolvated as well as solvated forms with pharmaceutically acceptable solvents such as water, ethanol, and the like. The solvated forms of the compounds and salts presented herein are also considered to be disclosed herein. [0070] In some embodiments, an aqueous solutions, emulsions, or suspensions of the disclosure comprises at least 90 wt% water, such as at least 91 wt%, at least 92 wt%, at least 93 wt%, at least 94 wt%, at least 95 wt%, at least 96 wt%, at least 97 wt%, at least 98 wt%, or even at least 99 wt % of water.

Polymeric Matrix

[0071] The present disclosure provides a preservative removal agent (e.g. a matrix). In some embodiments, the preservative removal agent comprises a polymeric matrix. A preservative removal agent may rapidly and selectively remove preservatives of the present disclosure from a solution, suspension, or emulsion comprising an ophthalmic agent. The preservative removal agent may rapidly and selectively extract the preservative, allowing the eye drop formulation to flow through the plug with minimal pressure drop, yet with sufficient time to remove the preservative and with sufficient surface area and chemistry to adsorb the preservative. The matrix may comprise a material with a high affinity for the preservative, such as for example benzalkonium chloride (BAK), and at the same time a low affinity for a drug or other ophthalmological agent especially in some embodiments of this invention where the drug is also in the complex with a complexing or capping agent. The preservative removal agent may be sufficiently selective, such that at least 50 percent of the preservative may be removed and at least 50 percent of the drug may be retained by the solution. BAK (benzalkonium chloride) can also go under a number of synonyms: alkylbenzyldimethylammonium chloride, alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride, benzyl ammonium chloride to name a few. It is also defined by a structure such as Formula: C₆H₅CH2N(CH₃)2RC1 (R=C₈H₁₇ to CI₈H₃₇) with a CAS Number: 63449-41-2. For most purposes in ophthalmic applications and formulations PharmaGrade, EP, USP, JP, manufactured under appropriate GMP controls for pharma or biopharmaceutical production is used.

[0072] Non-limiting examples of a preservative removal agents may comprise solid, gel, and/or particulate matrices. The preservative removal agent may act as a physical barrier or filter. Additionally, or alternatively, the preservative removal agent may chemically remove a preservative such as by adsorption of the preservative onto the matrix. The preservative removal agent may be disposed in the outlet of a container, which container may contain the solution, suspension, or emulsion.

[0073] In some embodiments, a matrix disposed within a nozzle may be a porous polymeric matrix. The porous polymeric matrix may comprise a variety of materials. Such material may be safe and biocompatible. Such material may comprise but is not limited to, for example, Poly(2 -hydroxy ethyl methacrylate) (pHEMA), poly(hydroxylethyl methacrylate-co-methacrylic acid), crosslinked polyacrylamide, dimethyl acrylamide, methyl methacrylate, silicones, and/or any combination of the preceding materials.

[0074] In some embodiments, the matrix may be highly porous. The pore size in the matrix may be small enough so that the molecules, which may initially be far from the surface of the polymer in the matrix, may diffuse towards the polymer and adsorb. A matrix may have large interconnected pores which may allow flow of solution and adsorption of the preservative into the pores. The matrix may be formed as a porous gel, as a packed bed, and/or a structure formed by 3D printing soft lithography, electrospinning, or any other appropriate method. In some embodiments, the matrix may comprise a microporous gel. In some embodiments, the matrix may comprise a packed bed of pHEMA or crosslinked polyacrylamide or other polymeric particles. The particles may be macroporous. The particles may be spherical or non-spherical. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix may comprise nano or micron sized polymeric particles (e.g., nanogels or microgels). In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix may comprise a cryogel. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix may be termed a hydrogel, be hydrophilic and absorb water readily. In some embodiments, the particles themselves may directly impart the preservative effect, such as colloidal silver nanoparticles.

[0075] In certain embodiments, particles of the formulations described herein have an average diameter from about 1 nm to about 10 pm, about 1 nm to about 10 pm, about 1 nm to about 5 pm, about 1 nm to about 2 pm, about 1 nm to about 1 pm, about 1 nm to about 900 nm, about 1 nm to about 800 nm, about 1 nm to about 700, about 1 nm to about 600 nm, about 1 nm to about 500 nm, about 1 nm to about 400 nm, about 1 nm to about 300 nm, about 1 nm to about 200 nm, or even from about 1 nm to about 100 nm. In certain embodiments, the average diameter is the average largest diameter or the average equivalent diameter.

[0076] In certain embodiments, greater than 80% of the particles, such as greater than 90% or greater than 95% of the particles in the formulation have an average largest particle diameter of from about 1 nm to about 1000 pm, about 1 nm to about 10 pm, about 1 nm to about 5 pm, about 1 nm to about 2 pm, about 1 nm to about 1 pm, about 1 nm to about 900 nm, about 1 nm to about 800 nm, about 1 nm to about 700, about 1 nm to about 600 nm, about 1 nm to about 500 nm, about 1 nm to about 400 nm, about 1 nm to about 300 nm, about 1 nm to about 200 nm, or even from about 1 nm to about 100 nm. In certain embodiments, the average diameter is the average largest diameter or the average equivalent diameter.

[0077] In certain embodiments, particles of the porous polymeric matrix described herein have an average diameter from about 100 nm to about 10 pm, about lOO nm to about 10 pm, about 100 nm to about 5 pm, about lOO nm to about 2 pm, about lOO nm to about 1 pm, about 100 nm to about 900 nm, about 100 nm to about 800 nm, about 100 nm to about 700, about 100 nm to about 600 nm, about 200 nmto about 500 nm, about 250 nm to about 600 nm, about 300 nm to about 600 nm, about 350 nmto about 700 nm, about 450 nm to about 550 nm, about 475 nm to about 525 nm, or from about 400 nm to about 700 nm. In certain embodiments, the average diameter is the average largest diameter or the average equivalent diameter.

[0078] In certain embodiments, greater than 80% of the particles of the porous polymeric matrix, greater than 90% of the particles of the porous polymeric matrix, or greater than 95% of the particles of the porous polymeric matrix have an average diameter from about 100 nm to about 10 pm, about 100 nm to about 10 pm, about 100 nmto about 5 pm, about 100 nm to about 2 pm, about 100 nm to about 1 pm, about lOOnm to about 900 nm, about lOOnm to about 800 nm, about 100 nm to about 700, about 100 nm to about 600 nm, about 200 nm to about 500 nm, about 250 nm to about 600 nm, about 300 nm to about 600 nm, about 350 nm to about 700 nm, about 450 nm to about 550 nm, about 475 nm to about 525 nm, or from about 400 nm to about 700 nm. In certain embodiments, the average diameter is the average largest diameter or the average equivalent diameter.

[0079] In certain embodiments, greater than 80% of the particles of the porous polymeric matrix, greater than 90% of the particles of the porous polymeric matrix, or greater than 95% of the particles in the formulation have an average diameter from about 10 pm to about 100 pm, about 50 pm to about 200 pm, about 90 pm to about 180 pm, about 150 pm to about 250 pm, about 200 pm to about 350 pm about 250 pm to about 500 pm , about 350 pm to about 800 pm, about 500 pm to about 1000 pm In certain embodiments, the average diameter is the average largest diameter or the average equivalent diameter. The particles may be irregular, regular, spherical, ovoid, or generally of any shape and the size can be defined as passing through a certain sized screen sieve.

[0080] The matrix may comprise a tortuosity such that the flow path of a solution, suspension, or emulsion through the nozzle maybe significantly increased. In an embodiment where the matrix is a packed bed of macroporous particles, the packed beds of macroporous particles may have three levels of porosity: the spacebetween the particles, the macropores in the particles, and the inherent porosity of the polymer. In such an embodiment, all three levels of porosity may contribute to the tortuosity of the matrix.

[0081] In some embodiments, a matrix disposed within a nozzle may be a porous polymeric matrix. Applying a pressure behind the nozzle may cause fluid to flow through the nozzle via the flow path, along which path the preservative may be removed by adsorption onto the matrix. The polymer material, the hydraulic permeability, the partition coefficient, the adsorption rate, and the pore size in combination may aid in the absorption of all or most of the preservative from the solution and thus patient eye drops. The reduced preservative solution may subsequently be delivered directly to the eye. The porous polymeric matrix may rapidly and selectively extract the preservative, allowing the eye drop formulation to flow through the plug with minimal pressure drop, yet with sufficient time to remove the preservative and with sufficient surface area to adsorb the preservative. The matrix may comprise a material with a high affinity for the preservative, such as for example benzalkonium chloride (BAK), and low affinity for a drug or other ophthalmological agent. The porous polymeric matrix may comprise a high affinity for the preservative, such that at least 50 percent of the preservative may be removed and at least 50 percent of the drug may be retained by the solution.

[0082] The porous polymeric matrix may comprise a variety of materials. Such material are safe and biocompatible. A polymer of the present disclosure may comprise various monomers, for example, Poly(2 -hydroxy ethyl methacrylate) (pHEMA) and/or and/or acrylamide (AM), dimethyl acrylamide (DMA) and/or methyl methacrylate (MMA) and/or N-Vinylpyrrolidone (NVP) and/or 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS) and/or polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and/or polymethylpropane sulfonic acid (PAMPS) and/or 2-sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM) and/or acrylic acid (AA) and/or vinylphosphonic acid (VP) and/or t-butyl methacrylate (TBM) and/or Methacryloxypropyltris(trimethylsiloxy)silane (TRIS) and/or t-amyl methacrylate and/or n-octyl methacrylate and/or iso-decyl methacrylate and/or n-decyl methacrylate and/or n- dodecyl acrylate and/or n-hexyl acrylate and/or n-dodecyl acrylate and/or N-(n- Octadecyl)acrylamide and/or silicones and/or any combination of the preceding materials. The polymeric matrix may further comprise a cross linker. A crosslinker may comprise N,N’- methylenebis(acrylamide) (MB AM) and/or triacrylamido triazine (TATZ) and/or SR 351 and/or SR9035 and/or any combination of the preceding materials.

[0083] In some embodiments, the matrix material comprises a copolymer. A copolymer may comprise more than one species of monomer. Copolymers may be branched. Copolymers may be linear. Copolymers may comprise crosslinkers. Copolymers may be block copolymers, may be alternating copolymers, may be periodic copolymers, may be gradient copolymers may be statistical copolymers, may be stereoblock copolymers. The copolymers may exhibit phases of differing hydrophobicity or hydrophilicity. The hydrophobicity and/or hydrophilicity of the one or more monomers or cross-linkers may control the binding of a therapeutic agent or a preservative to the plug material.

[0084] In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix comprises polyvinyl alcohol crosslinked with citric acid or other suitable crosslinking agent to render it a hydrophilic hydrogel. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix can be crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone, crosslinked polyethylene oxide, crosslinked polyacrylamides, crosslinked copolymers of methacrylic acid, polyacrylic acid and copolymers such as poly (acrylic acid-co-acrylamide), or poly (methacrylic acid-co-acrylamide).

[0085] Polymers of the present disclosure may generally follow an A/B/C formula where A and B are monomers, C is one or more cross-linkers, and A and B are not the same monomer. In some examples, A may be an anionic hydrophilic monomer. In an A/B/C formula, monomers of type A may comprise AM or NVP. In some examples, B may be an ionic hydrophilic monomer. In an A/B/C formula, monomers of typeB may comprise MAA, AMPS, SEM, AA, or VP. In some examples, C may be a crosslinker. In an A/B/C formula, monomers of type C may comprise one or more of MB AM, TATZ, or SR 351. Polymers of the present disclosure may generally follow an A/C formula where A is a monomer as described above and C is one or more cross-linkers as described above. Polymers of the present disclosure may generally follow an B/C formula where B is a monomer as described above and C is one or more cross-linkers as described above.

[0086] Polymers of the present disclosure may also comprise grafted copolymers such that components such as monomer A and with a cross-linker C are first copolymerized to form a crosslinked copolymer that can be isolated as a small bead or other shaped particle. In some embodiments, the beads comprise spherical beads. These beads or particles can then be reswollen in water and a monomer of B type can added and then polymerized into or onto the bead or particle through the use a free radical “grafting” polymerization. In this embodiment the particles are made up of A/C copolymer with a “grafted” B polymer as part of the copolymer structure.

[0087] The following is a non-exhaustive list of examples of polymers of the present disclosure. The following includes polymer components and percent compositions, separated by slashes, respectively. Polymers of the present disclosure may comprise: AMPS/MBAM/TATZ 7.5/82.5/10, AMPS/MBAM/TATZ 7.5/77.5/15 AMPS/MBAM 7.5/92.5, BioRadBeads /AMPS 1 g/0.5, AMPS/MBAM 7.5/92.5, AMPS/MBAM/TATZ 7.5/87.5/5.0 (D-322-006-AW), SEM/MBAM 7.5/92.5, AM/2-Sulfoethyl MA(SEM)/MBAM 30/10/60, AMPS/MBAM 7.5/92.5; AMPS/MBAM 7.5/92.5, AMPS/MBAM 7.5/92.5, AMPS/MBAM 7.5/92.5, PVA/PAMPS/C A 4.8/1 .2/2.4 IPN, AMPS/MBAM 7.5/92.5 ISP, NVP/AMPS/MBAM/TATZ 30/10/30/30, AMPS/MBAM 7.5/92.5, N-vinylpyrrolidinone/AMPS/MB AM 30/10/60, AA/SR351 40/60, AA/MBAM/SR35 1 60/30/10, AM/2- Sulfoethyl MA (SEM)/MBAM 15/25/60, AA/MBAM 40/60, AA/MBAM 50/50, and VP/AA/MB AM 10/45/45.

[0088] Any matrix material and any drug in association with a complexing agent may be used such that the drug/complex partition coefficient into the matrix may be lower by at least an order of magnitude or 2 orders of magnitude than the matrix’s affinity for the preservative. For example, pHEMA, or S03- or P03H- or COO- groups on the polymer (or matrix) may bind BAK with a partition coefficient of about 100-500, or in some embodiments, 1000 depending on the BAK concentration and the structure of the matrix and the % content of those groups. In some embodiments, the matrix may comprise a partition coefficient for the preservative from the solution, suspension, or emulsion of, for example, at least 10, at least 100, at least 1000, at least 10,000, or within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. Additionally, or alternatively, the adsorption rate constant may be sufficiently high so that the time for adsorption of a drug molecule to the polymer may be less than the time to form a drop. The time to form a drop may comprise a time within a range from 0.1 to 10 seconds.

[0089] The matrix may display a high hydraulic permeability such that relatively little pressure may be required to dispense a fluid. The hydraulic permeability may depend on the design of the filter. Larger pores in the matrix may allow for higher flow for a given pressure drop. In some embodiments, hydraulic permeability may be larger than about 0.01 Darcy (Da). A nozzle may comprise a permeability of about 0.1 Darcy. A hydraulic permeability of 1 to 10 Darcy may allow fluid to be retained in the filter during instances when the pressure may be lowered sub sequent to formation of a drop. A larger hydraulic permeability may allow the same plug to work for a wide range of formulations including, for example, high viscosity formulations, such as rewetting eye drops. In some embodiments, the porous polymeric matrix comprises a hydraulic permeability of, for example, 0.01 Da, 0.1 Da, 1 Da, 10 Da, 100 Da, 1000 Da or a hydraulic permeability within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0090] In some embodiments, the matrix may be highly porous. The pore size in the matrix may be small enough so that the molecules, which may initially be far from the surface of the polymer in the matrix, may diffuse towards the polymer and adsorb. A matrix may comprise large interconnected pores which may allow flow of solution and adsorption of the preservative into the pores. The matrix may be formed as a porous gel, as a packed bed, and/or a structure formed by 3D printing soft lithography, electrospinning of a fiber, or any other appropriate method. In some embodiments, the matrix may comprise a microporous gel. In some embodiments, the matrix may comprise a packed bed of pHEMA or crosslinked polyacrylamide with an anionic moiety or functionality as part of the polymer or other polymeric particles. The particles may be macroporous. The particles may be spherical or non-spherical. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix may comprise nano or micron sized or 10s of microns or 100s of microns of polymeric particles (e.g., nanogels or microgels). In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix may comprise a cryogel. In some embodiments, the particles themselves may directly impart the preservative effect, such as colloidal silver nanoparticles. [0091] In some embodiments, the particles may need to be stably held in the nozzle and prevented from eluting from the nozzle. The particles may be attached to the container walls through long polymeric chains and/or by placing a filter at the exit from the device. Additionally, or alternatively, the walls of the container or other surfaces may comprise preservative attached thereupon and/or incorporated therein. In such embodiments, the preservative source comprises a pHEMA membrane with 1 -10% by volume equilibrated with BAK. In some embodiments, the matrix comprises pre-loaded with BAK at a concentration to inhibit microbial growth over time.

[0092] In some embodiments, the porous matrix material may comprise a tortuosity such that the flow path of a solution, suspension, or emulsion through the nozzle increases. In some embodiments where the matrix comprises a packed bed of macroporous particles, the packed beds of macroporous particles may comprise three levels of porosity: the space between the particles, the macropores in the particles, and the inherent porosity of the polymer. In such embodiments, all three levels of porosity may contribute to the tortuosity of the matrix. The tortuosity of the porous material combined with the geometry nozzle itself may increase the flow path in accordance with a multiplicative factor of a first flow path length corresponding to flow defined by the nozzle geometry and a second flow path length corresponding to the tortuosity of the porous material.

[0093] The pressure needed for drop creation may exceed the Young Laplace pressure during drop creation, which may be about 2o/R._d where c is the surface tension and Rd is the radius of the drop. Estimating R_d~ 0.5 mm based on a drop volume of 30 pL, and using the surface tension of water may yield a Young Laplace pressure of about lOOPa. The pressure to form a drop may additionally exceed the pressure needed to displace 30 pL of volume. Typical drop volumes may comprise a volume within a range between 1 pL and 100 pL. The minimum pressure to form a drop may be ~ 0.01 Atm (1000 Pa) based on an ideal gas estimate using a 3mLbottle at atmospheric pressure, but may be lower for larger bottles at varying pressures. Maximum pressure to form a drop may be limited by a patient strength. The pressure to form a drop may be within a range between 0.01 Atm and 0.5 Atm.

[0094] The rate of liquid flow through the plug may depend on the applied pressure as well as the design parameters of the matrix including, but not limited to, length, area, porosity, hydraulic permeability, flow path length, etc. These design parameters may be considered individually or in combination to remove preservative without excessive squeeze pressure. The rate of liquid flow may affect the time to form a drop.

[0095] A solution, suspension, or emulsion can comprise an ophthalmic agent and a preservative. In one aspect, a polymeric matrix is configured such that the preservative maybe selectively removedin the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix may be configured such that about 1% to about 99%, about 20% to about 80%, about 40% to about 60%, about 10%, about 20%, about 30%, about40%, about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, about 80%, or about 90% of the preservative is selectively removedin the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix is configured such that the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix maintains less than about 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, or 5% of the preservative. In some embodiments, the ophthalmic agent comprises a hydrophobic ophthalmic agent. In some embodiments, the preservative comprises benzalkonium chloride (BAK).

[0096] As described herein, ophthalmic agents have an associated activity (e.g., lowering intraocular pressure (IOP)). A solution, suspension, or emulsion can comprise an ophthalmic agent and a preservative. In one aspect, a polymeric matrix is configured such that an activity of the ophthalmic agent is substantially maintained in the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix. In some embodiments, the polymeric matrix is configured such that the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix maintains at least about 30% to about 95%, about 40% to about 80%, about 50% to about 70%, about 30%, about 40%, about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, about 80%, about 90%, or about 95% of an activity of the ophthalmic agent as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix.

[0097] In one aspect, a polymeric matrix can comprise an active matrix component and an inactive matrix component. In some embodiments, the inactive matrix component can have substantially no affinity for the ophthalmic agent or the preservative. In some embodiments the active polymeric matrix component comprises polymeric hydrogel. In some embodiments, the inactive polymeric matrix component is a polyolefin. In some embodiments, inactive polymeric matrix component can comprise a polyethylene, polypropylene, or copolymers thereof. In some embodiments the inactive polymeric matrix component can comprise a low-density polyethylene (LDPE).

Compressible Bottle

[0098] In one aspect, a solution, suspension, or emulsion can be disposed within a chamber of a compressible bottle. In some embodiments, a compressible bottle can comprise an extended outlet, a polymeric matrix within the extended outlet, and a reservoir holding the solution, suspension, or emulsion. In some embodiments, the solution, suspension, or emulsion comprises an ophthalmic agent. In some embodiments, the solution, suspension, or emulsion may further comprise a preservative. In some embodiments, applying pressure to the compressible bottle passes the solution, suspension, or emulsion through the polymeric matrix to the outlet. In some embodiments, applying pressure to the compressible bottle forms a drop at the outlet. In some embodiments, the drop comprises the solution, suspension, or emulsion. In some embodiments, the compressible bottle comprises a multi -dosing device.

[0099] In some embodiment, compressible bottle comprises a portable device. In some embodiments, the compressible bottle can be held in a hand of an individual. In some embodiments, the compressible bottle comprises a mass of less than about 100 grams, about 90 grams, about 80 grams, about 70 grams, about 60 grams, about 50 grams, about 40 grams, about 30 grams, about 20 grams, about 10 grams, or about 5 grams. In some embodiments the mass of the compressible bottle can be between about 2 grams and about 100 grams.

Dosage

[0100] The dosage and frequency (single or multiple doses) administered to a mammal may vary depending upon a variety of factors, for example, whether the mammal suffers from another disease, and its route of administration; size, age, sex, health, body weight, body mass index, and diet of the recipient; nature and extent of symptoms of the disease being treated, kind of concurrent treatment, complications from the disease being treated or other health -related problems. Other therapeutic regimens or agents may be used in conjunction with the methods and compounds of this disclosure. Adjustment and manipulation of established dosages (e.g., frequency and duration) are well within the ability of those skilled in the art.

[0101] Dosages may be varied depending upon the requirements of the patient and the compound being employed. The dose administered to a patient, in the context of the present disclosure should be sufficient to affect a beneficial therapeutic response in the patient over time. The size of the dose also may be determined by the existence, nature, and extent of any adverse side effects. Determination of the proper dosage for a particular situation is within the skill of the practitioner. Generally, treatment is initiated with smaller dosages which are less than the optimum dose of the compound. Thereafter, the dosage is increased by small increments until the optimum effect under circumstances is reached. Dosage amounts and intervals may be adjusted individually to provide levels of the administered compound effective for the particular clinical indication being treated. This may provide a therapeutic regimen that is commensurate with the severity of the individual's disease state

Definitions

[0102] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of skill in the art to which this invention belongs. All patents and publications referred to herein are incorporated by reference. [0103] As used in the specification and claims, the singular form “a”, “an” and “the” includes plural referencesunless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0104] As used herein, and unless otherwise specified, the term "about" or "approximately" means an acceptable error for a particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, which depends in part on howthe value is measured or determined. In certain embodiments, the term "about" or "approximately" means within 1 , 2, 3, or 4 standard deviations. In certain embodiments, the term "about" or "approximately" means within 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, 0.1%, or 0.05% of a given value or range. In certain embodiments, the term "about" or "approximately" means within 40.0 mm, 30.0 mm, 20.0 mm, 10.0mm 5.0 mm 1 .0 mm, 0.9 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.2 mm or 0. 1 mm of a given value or range.

[0105] As used herein, the term “OD” refers to right eye of a subject.

[0106] As used herein, the term “OS” refers to left eye of a subject.

[0107] As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation there of, are intended to cover a nonexclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.

[0108] As used herein, the terms “user”, “subject” or “patient” are used interchangeably. As used herein, the terms “subject” and “subjects” refers to an animal (e.g., birds, reptiles, and mammals), a mammal including a primate (e.g., a monkey, chimpanzee, and a human) and a non-primate (e.g., a camel, donkey, zebra, cow, pig, horse, cat, dog, rat, and mouse). In certain embodiments, the mammal is 0 to 6 months old, 6 to 12 months old, 1 to 5 years old, 5 to 10 years old, 10 to 15 years old, 15 to 20 years old, 20 to 25 years old, 25 to 30 years old, 30 to 35 years old, 35 to 40 years old, 40 to 45 years old, 45 to 50 years old, 50 to 55 years old, 55 to 60 years old, 60 to 65 years old, 65 to 70 years old, 70 to 75 years old, 75 to 80 years old, 80 to 85 years old, 85 to 90 years old, 90 to 95 years old or 95 to 100. In some embodiments, the subject or patient is a pig. In certain embodiments, the pig is 0 to 6 months old, 6 to 12 months old, 1 to 5 years old, 5 to 10 years old or 10 to 15 years old. The natural lifespan of a pig is 10-15 years. [0109] The terms “treating” or “treatment” refers to any indicia of success in the treatment or amelioration of an injury, disease, pathology or condition, including any objective or subjective parameter such as abatement; remission; diminishing of symptoms or making the injury, pathology or condition more tolerable to the patient; slowing in the rate of degeneration or decline; making the final point of degeneration less debilitating; improving a patient’s physical or mental well-being. The treatment or amelioration of symptoms may be based on objective or subjective parameters; including the results of a physical examination, neuropsychiatric exams, and/or a psychiatric evaluation. The term "treating" and conjugations thereof, include prevention of an injury, pathology, condition, or disease.

[0110] In some embodiments, the term “prevent” or “preventing” as related to a disease or disorder may refer to a compound that, in a statistical sample, reduces the occurrence of the disorder or condition in the treated sample relative to an untreated control sample, or delays the onset or reduces the severity of one or more symptoms of the disorder or condition relative to the untreated control sample.

[0111] An “effective amount” is an amount sufficient for a compound to accomplish a stated purpose relative to the absence of the compound (e.g. achieve the effect for which it is administered, treat a disease, reduce enzyme activity, increase enzyme activity, reduce a signaling pathway, or reduce one or more symptoms of a disease or condition). An example of a “therapeutically effective amount” is an amount sufficient to contribute to the treatment, prevention, or reduction of a symptom or symptoms of a disease, which could also be referred to as a “therapeutically effective amount.” A “reduction of’ a symptom or symptoms (and grammatical equivalents of this phrase) means decreasing of the severity or frequency of the symptom(s), or elimination of the symptom(s). The exact amounts may depend on the purpose of the treatment and may be ascertainable by one skilled in the art using known techniques. [0112] The phrase “pharmaceutically acceptable” is employed herein to refer to those compounds, materials, compositions, and/or dosage forms which are, within the scope of sound medical judgment, suitable for use in contact with the tissues of human beings and animals without excessive toxicity, irritation, allergic response, or other problem or complication, commensurate with a reasonable benefit/risk ratio.

[0113] The term “activity” when describing an ophthalmic agent herein refers to treatment provided by an ophthalmic agent (e.g., lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye) to a symptom or a sign of a disorder or a condition. In some case, the treatment comprises reducing the symptom or a sign of a disorder or a condition in a subj ect having the disorder or the condition.

[0114] The term “safety” when describing an ophthalmic agent, an ophthalmic formulation, or a solution, suspension, or emulsion herein refers to a characteristic that protects against harmful contamination (e.g., fungal or bacterial contamination).

[0115] The term “substituted” refers to moieties having substituents replacing a hydrogen on one or more carbons or heteroatoms of the structure. It will be understood that “substitution” or “substituted with” includes the implicit proviso that such substitution is in accordance with permitted valence of the substituted atom andthe substituent, andthatthe substitution results in a stable compound, e.g., which does not spontaneously undergo transformation such as by rearrangement, cyclization, elimination, etc. As used herein, the term “substituted” is contemplated to include all permissible substituents of organic compounds. In a broad asp ect, the permissible substituents include acyclic and cyclic, branched and unbranched, carbocyclic and heterocyclic, aromatic and non-aromatic substituents of organic compounds. The permissible substituents can be one or more and the same or different for appropriate organic compounds. For purposes of this disclosure, the heteroatoms such as nitrogen may have hydrogen substituents and/or any permissible substituents of organic compounds described herein which satisfy the valences of the heteroatoms.

NUMBERED EMBODIMENTS

[0116] Embodiment 1. A method for providing a hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprising: providing a solution, suspension, or emulsion comprising the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent and a preservative; and providing a polymeric matrix, the polymeric matrix configured such that an activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is substantially maintained and the preservative is selectively removed in the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix. [0117] Embodiment 2. A method for providing an ophthalmic agent comprising: applying pressure to a compressible bottle comprising an extended outlet, a polymeric matrix within the extended outlet, and a reservoir holding a solution, suspension, or emulsion comprising the ophthalmic agent and a preservative; and forming a drop comprising the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix, the polymeric matrix configured such that an activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is substantially maintained and the preservative is selectively removed in the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix.

[0118] Embodiment 3. A method for delivering a hydrophobic ophthalmic agent to an eye of a subject to reduce intraocular pressure comprising: applying pressure to a compressible bottle comprising an extended outlet, a polymeric matrix within the extended outlet, and a reservoir holding a solution, suspension, or emulsion comprising the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent and a preservative; and forming a drop comprising the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix, the polymeric matrix configured such that an activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is substantially maintained and the preservative is selectively removed in the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix.

[0119] Embodiment 4. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the polymeric matrix is configured such that the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix maintains at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90% of an activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix.

[0120] Embodiment 5. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the polymeric matrix is configured such that the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix maintains less than 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, or 10% of the preservative as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix.

[0121] Embodiment 6. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises reducing an intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye.

[0122] Embodiment 7. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises treating ocular hypertension, or open angle glaucoma, or a combination thereof.

[0123] Embodiment 8. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises improving visual acuity.

[0124] Embodiment 9. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the reducing IOP comprises reducing IOP by at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 mmHg.

[0125] Embodiment 10. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the reducing IOP comprises reducing IOP to 21 , 20, 19, or 18 mmHg or lower.

[0126] Embodiment 11. The method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises maintaining the intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye below at least 25, 24, 23, 22, or 21 mmHg.

[0127] Embodiment 12. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the reduction in the intraocular pressure is measured by applanation tonometry.

[0128] Embodiment 13. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix reduces IOP within 2 mmHg as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix.

[0129] Embodiment 14. The method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises maintaining the intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye below at least 25, 24, 23, 22, or21 mmHg.

[0130] Embodiment 15. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises latanoprost, timolol, brinzolamide, brimonidine, travoprost, bimatoprost, netarsudil, latanoprostbunod, dorzolamide, or aceclidine, ora combination thereof.

[0131] Embodiment 16. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises latanoprost, bimatoprost, dexamethasone, cyclosporine, travoprost, or a prostaglandin analog drug, or a combination thereof.

[0132] Embodiment 17. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is less than 500 millimolar.

[0133] Embodiment 18. The method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is between 0.01% (w/w) and 1.5% (w/w). [0134] Embodiment 19. The method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is between 0.01% (w/w) and 0.6% (w/w). [0135] Embodiment 20. The method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is between 0.05% (w/w) and 0.3% (w/w). [0136] Embodiment 21. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is less than 0.3% (w/w).

[0137] Embodiment 22. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the preservative is benzalkonium chloride.

[0138] Embodiment 23. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, where a concentration of the preservative is less than 0.05% (w/w).

[0139] Embodiment 24. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the polymeric matrix is a polymeric hydrogel.

[0140] Embodiment 25. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the polymeric matrix comprises crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone, crosslinked polyethylene oxide, crosslinked polyacrylamides, crosslinked copolymers of methacrylic acid, polyacrylic acid, or copolymers selected from poly (acrylic acid-co-acrylamide), or poly (methacrylic acid-co- acrylamide), or a combination thereof.

[0141] Embodiment 26. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the polymeric matrix comprises a hydrogel prepared from polyacrylamide crosslinked with at least one crosslinking monomer selected from N,N’ -methylenebis(acrylamide) (MB AM), triacrylamido triazine (TATZ), SR 351, or SR9035; and the crosslinked polyacrylamide is modified with at least one modifying monomer selected from methyl methacrylate (MAA), 2 - acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS), 2 -sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM), acrylic acid (AA), orvinylphosphonic acid (VP).

[0142] Embodiment 27. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the polymeric matrix is hydrogel prepared from polyacrylamide crosslinked with at least one crosslinking monomer selected from N,N’-methylenebis(acrylamide) (MB AM), triacrylamido triazine (TATZ), SR 351, or SR9035; the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is isolated; and the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is modified with at least one modifying monomer selected from methyl methacrylate (MAA), 2-acrylamido-2 -methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS), 2-sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM), acrylic acid (AA), orvinylphosphonic acid (VP). [0143] Embodiment 28. The method of embodiment 27, wherein the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is isolated in the form of spherical beads.

[0144] Embodiment 29. The method of embodiment 27 or embodiment 28, wherein the at least one modifying monomer comprises 2-acrylamido-2 -methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS) or 2- sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM).

[0145] Embodiment 30. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the solution, suspension, or emulsion further comprises a complexing agent.

[0146] Embodiments 1. The method of embodiment 30, wherein the complexing agent and the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent form an inclusion compound.

[0147] Embodiment32. The method of embodiment 30, wherein the complexing agent is configured to reduce an affinity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent for the polymeric matrix. [0148] Embodiment 33. The method of embodiment 30, wherein the complexing agent comprises a cyclodextrin.

[0149] Embodiment34. The method of embodiment 33, wherein the cyclodextrin is sized to host the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent within a hydrophobic interior of the cyclodextrin.

[0150] Embodiment35. The method of embodiment 33, wherein the cyclodextrin is atleastone of (2-Hydroxypropyl)-a-cyclodextrin, (2-Hydroxypropyl)-P-cyclodextrin, (2 -Hydroxyprop yl)-y- cyclodextrin, a-cyclodextrin, P-cyclodextrin, y-cyclodextrin, methyl-a-cyclodextrin, methyl-P- cyclodextrin, methyl-y-cyclodextrin, dimethyl -beta-cyclodextrin, highly sulphated-beta- cyclodextrin, 6-monodeoxy-6-N-mono(3 -hydroxy )propylamino-beta-cyclodextrin, or a randomly or selectively substituted alpha, beta or gamma cyclodextrin.

[0151] Embodiment 36. The method of embodiment 30, wherein a concentration of the complexing agent is less than 200 micromolar.

[0152] Embodiment 37. The method of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the polymeric matrix comprises an active matrix component and an inactive matrix component. [0153] Embodiment38. The method of embodiment 37, wherein the inactive matrix component has substantially no affinity for the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent or the preservative.

[0154] Embodiment 39. The method of embodiment 37 or embodiment 38, wherein the active polymeric matrix component is a polymeric hydrogel. [0155] Embodiment 40. The method of embodiments? or embodiment 38, wherein the inactive polymeric matrix component is a polyolefin.

[0156] Embodiment 41. The method of embodiment 40, wherein the polyolefin is a polyethylene, polypropylene or copolymers thereof.

[0157] Embodiment 42. The method of embodiment 41, wherein the polyolefin is a low-density polyethylene (LDPE).

[0158] Embodiment 43. A multi-dosing delivery device for dispensing a hydrophobic ophthalmic agent, the device comprising: a bottle having an extended outlet; a polymeric matrix dispensed within the extended outlet; and a reservoir configured to hold a solution, suspension, or emulsion comprising the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent and a preservative, wherein the polymeric matrix is configured such that an activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is substantially maintained and the preservative is selectively removed in the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix.

[0159] Embodiment 44. The device of embodiment 43, wherein the polymeric matrix is configured such that the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix maintains at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90% of an activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix.

[0160] Embodiment 45. The device of embodiment 43 or embodiment 44, wherein the polymeric matrix is configured such that the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix maintains less than 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, or 10% of the preservative as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix.

[0161] Embodiment 46. The device of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises reducing an intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye.

[0162] Embodiment 47. The device of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises treating ocular hypertension, or open angle glaucoma, or a combination thereof.

[0163] Embodiment 48. The device of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises improving visual acuity.

[0164] Embodiment 49. The device of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the reducing IOP comprises reducing IOP by at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 mm Hg. [0165] Embodiment 50. The device of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the reducing IOP comprises reducing IOP to 21 , 20, 19, or 18 mmHg or lower.

[0166] Embodiment 51. The device of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises maintaining the intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye below at least 25, 24, 23, 22, or 21 mmHg.

[0167] Embodiment 52. The device of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the reduction in the intraocular pressure is measured by applanation tonometry.

[0168] Embodiment 53. The device of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix reduces IOP within 2 mmHg as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix.

[0169] Embodiment 54. The device of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises latanoprost, timolol, brinzolamide, brimonidine, travoprost, bimatoprost, netarsudil, latanoprost bunod, dorzolamide, or aceclidine, or a combination thereof.

[0170] Embodiment 55. The device of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises latanoprost, bimatoprost, dexamethasone, cyclosporine, travoprost, or a prostaglandin analog drug, or a combination thereof.

[0171] Embodiment 56. The device of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is less than 500 millimolar.

[0172] Embodiment 57. The device of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is between 0.01% (w/w) and 1.5% (w/w). [0173] Embodiment 58. The device of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is between 0.01% (w/w) and 0.6% (w/w). [0174] Embodiment 59. The device of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is between 0.05% (w/w) and 0.3% (w/w). [0175] Embodiment 60. The device of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is less than 0.3% (w/w).

[0176] Embodiment 61. The device of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the preservative is benzalkonium chloride.

[0177] Embodiment 62. The device of any one of preceding embodiments, where a concentration of the preservative is less than 0.05% (w/w).

[0178] Embodiment 63. The device of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the polymeric matrix is a polymeric hydrogel. [0179] Embodiment 64. The device of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the polymeric matrix comprises crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone, crosslinked polyethylene oxide, crosslinked polyacrylamides, crosslinked copolymers of methacrylic acid, polyacrylic acid, or copolymers selected from poly (acrylic acid-co-acrylamide), or poly (methacrylic acid-co- acrylamide), or a combination thereof.

[0180] Embodiment 65. The device of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the polymeric matrix comprises a hydrogel prepared from polyacrylamide crosslinked with at least one crosslinking monomer selected from N,N’-methylenebis(acrylamide) (MB AM), triacrylamido triazine (TATZ), SR 351, or SR9035; and the crosslinked polyacrylamide is modified with at least one modifying monomer selected from methyl methacrylate (MAA), 2 - acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS), 2 -sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM), acrylic acid (AA), orvinylphosphonic acid (VP).

[0181] Embodiment 66. The device of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the polymeric matrix is hydrogel prepared from polyacrylamide crosslinked with at least one crosslinking monomer selected from N,N’-methylenebis(acrylamide) (MB AM), triacrylamido triazine (TATZ), SR 351, or SR9035; the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is isolated; and the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is modified with at least one modifying monomer selected from methyl methacrylate (MAA), 2-acrylamido-2 -methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS), 2-sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM), acrylic acid (AA), orvinylphosphonic acid (VP). [0182] Embodiment 67. The device of embodiment 66, wherein the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is isolated in the form of spherical beads.

[0183] Embodiment68. The device of embodiment66 or embodiment 67, wherein the atleast one modifying monomer comprises 2-acrylamido-2 -methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS) or 2- sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM).

[0184] Embodiment 69. The device of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the solution, suspension, or emulsion further comprises a complexing agent.

[0185] Embodiment 70. The device of embodiment 69, wherein the complexing agent and the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent form an inclusion compound.

[0186] Embodiment 71. The device of embodiment 69, wherein the complexing agent is configured to reduce an affinity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent for the polymeric matrix. [0187] Embodiment 72. The device of embodiment 69, wherein the complexing agent comprises a cyclodextrin.

[0188] Embodiment 73. The device of embodiment 72, wherein the cyclodextrin is sized to host the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent within a hydrophobic interior of the cyclodextrin. [0189] Embodiment 74. The device of embodiment 72, wherein the cyclodextrin is at least one of (2-Hydroxypropyl)-a-cyclodextrin, (2-Hydroxypropyl)-P-cyclodextrin, (2 -Hydroxyprop yl)-y- cyclodextrin, a-cyclodextrin, P-cyclodextrin, y-cyclodextrin, methyl-a-cyclodextrin, methyl-P- cyclodextrin, methyl-y-cyclodextrin, dimethyl -beta-cyclodextrin, highly sulphated-beta- cyclodextrin, 6-monodeoxy-6-N-mono(3 -hydroxy )propylamino-beta-cyclodextrin, or a randomly or selectively substituted alpha, beta or gamma cyclodextrin.

[0190] Embodiment 75. The device of embodiment 69, wherein a concentration of the complexing agent is less than 200 micromolar.

[0191] Embodiment 76. The device of any one of preceding embodiments, wherein the polymeric matrix comprises an active matrix component and an inactive matrix component. [0192] Embodiment 77. The device of embodiment 76, wherein the inactive matrix component has substantially no affinity for the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent or the preservative.

[0193] Embodiment 78. The device of embodiment 76 or embodiment 77, wherein the active polymeric matrix component is a polymeric hydrogel.

[0194] Embodiment 79. The device of embodiment 76 or embodiment 77, wherein the inactive polymeric matrix component is a polyolefin.

[0195] Embodiment 80. The device of embodiment 79, wherein the polyolefin is a polyethylene, polypropylene or copolymers thereof.

[0196] Embodiment 81. The device of embodiment 80, wherein the polyolefin is a low-density polyethylene (LDPE).

EXAMPLES

[0197] It is understood that the examples and embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention. It is also understood that various modifications or changes in light of the examples and embodiments described herein will be suggested to persons skilled in the art and are to be included within the spirit and purview of this application and scope of the appended claims. All publications, patents, and patent application cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

[0198] It will be understood that various ophthalmic agents may be used in any aspect of the disclosure provided. It will be understood that various cyclodextrins may be used in any aspect of the disclosure provided to complex the ophthalmic agent in aqueous solution. It will be understood that various preservatives may be used in any aspect of the disclosure provided to render the original solution stable for storage. It will be understood that various porous polymer hydrogel materials may be used in any aspect of the disclosure provided. Example 1

[0199] A study was conducted to evaluate the ocular hypotensive efficacy and safety of a non - limiting example embodiment of a solution, suspension, or emulsion described herein, TC-002, in subjects with open-angle glaucoma (OAG) or ocular hypertension (OHT). TC-002 is 0.005% latanoprost ophthalmic solution preserved in a bottle with benzalkonium chloride, (BAK) where the bottle is configured to prevent BAK from being delivered to the subject. The objective of the study was to demonstrate substantial equivalence of latanoprost ophthalmic solution 0.005% (TC-002) compared to commercially available latanoprost ophthalmic solution 0.005% (LAT) in reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) in participants with glaucoma or ocular hypertension. The secondary objectives of the study were to assess the safety and tolerability of TC-002.

Methods

[0200] The study was conducted according to certain parameters. The study was a Phase 3 study conducted in multiple centers. The study was double-masked between researchers and participants. Details of participants are as follows. Participants had key inclusion criteria for the study. Key inclusion criteria for the study involved adults with bilateral primary open -angle glaucoma (POAG) or OHT with intraocular pressure (IOP) <21 mmHg on a single prostaglandin or analog (PGA) single therapy at visit 1, 28 to 42 days before the commencement of the study. Participants had best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA, Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study orETDRS) of +0.6 logMAR or better in each eye. Individuals with other cause glaucoma or multi -drop treatment other than prostaglandins or PGAs were excluded from the study. Participants were assigned to TC-002 or marketed, preserved, latanoprost ophthalmic solution by parallel randomization and were dosed once per day (QD) between 7 and 9 pm for a period of 12 weeks. Dosing was once-daily in both eyes in the evening for 3 months.

[0201] Measurements taken included: IOP and diurnal IOP measured by Goldmann Applanation Tonometry), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), biomicroscopy, dilated ophthalmoscopy, pachymetry, perimetry, subject-rated drop comfort/tolerability, investigational product levels (in the pharmacokinetic cohort), blood samples, and adverse effects (AE). Diurnal IOP was calculated as the average of 8 :00 AM, 10:00 AM, and 4:00 PM measurements at Weeks 2, 6, and 12. Additionally, changes in a patient-reported outcome questionnaire, an abbreviated Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSD I) were recorded. This questionnaire consisted of 5 questions pertaining: (1) light sensitivity, (2) gritty feeling, (3) pain or soreness, (4) blurred vision, and (5) poor vision. Subjects also recorded their drop administration in a dosing diary to monitor treatment compliance.

Results [0202] In this large, controlled study, TC-002 was substantially similar and of similar safety to marketed, preserved Iatan oprost. 262 Subjects were enrolled at 24 U. S. Private Practices, of which 254 subjects (97%) completed the study. Approximately 25% of the subjects were Hispanic/ Latino, and approximately 25% were Black. No appreciable differences in demographic or baseline ocular characteristics were observed between the TC-002 and marketed, preserved latanoprost groups. Over the 3 month study, mean intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction from an unmedicated baseline of 24 to 25 mmHg was 6 to 7 mmHg. The primary outcome measure -substantial equivalence of TC-002 to marketed latanoprost, was within 1 .0 mmHg at 8 of the 9 measured time points, and within 1.5 mmHg at all times. Approximately 20% of subjects in each treatment group reported ocular adverse events (AE). The most frequent adverse event (AE) was conjunctival hyperemia. Most events were mild in severity. In a planned subset of the subjects no latanoprost free acid was found in the plasma of the 22 subjects tested.

[0203] Overall, the full analysis for the study included 262 patients with a mean age of 67 years. The age range of the subjects was 33 to 91 years. Mean IOP reduction from an unmedicated baseline of 24 to 25 mmHg was 6 to 7 mmHg (FIG. 2). The results of the study indicate substantial similarity of TC-002 to marketed latanoprost. Mean reduction of IOP was within 1 .0 mmHg at 8 of 9 time points, and within 1.5 mmHg at all time points. Diurnal IOP showed substantial similarity of TC-002 to marketed Iatan oprost. at all 3 time points evaluated at weeks 2, 6, and 12 (FIG. 2). Throughout the study OSDI scores were in the normal range and there were no clinically or statistically significant differences between treatment groups.

Results

[0204] Duringthe study, 26 subjects (19.5%) in the TC-002 group and 24 subjects (18.6%) in the preserved latanoprost group had a total of 35 and 25 ocular adverse effects (AE), respectively, in either eye. The proportion of subjects with an AE related to the investigational product was 9.0% and 10.9% in the TC-002 and preserved latanoprost groups, respectively. At post-baseline visits during weeks 2, 6, and 12, mean change from baseline (CFB) in mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was minimal, ranging from -0.011 to -0.020 logMARin the TC- 002 group and from +0.001 to +0.008 in the preserved latanoprost group .

[0205] The following observations were noted in both treatment groups. Slit-lamp results in the study eye and non-study eye remained relatively stable throughout the study. Ophthalmoscopy showed mean CFB was nominal at each post-baseline visit. Perimetry values remained relatively stable from baseline to the end of the study. The incidence of mild and moderate conjunctival hyperemia increased from baseline in both eyes. On a scale of 0 (comfortable) to 100 (very uncomfortable), subject-rated drop comfort/tolerability, scores were low at Week 2 and held steady or decreased, indicating improvement, over time. Overall, the mean treatment adherence was 98.7% in this study.

Conclusions

[0206] The results of the study revealed the following. Intraocular pressure (IOP) was within 1.5 mmHG at all 9 time points and 1.0 mmHg at 8 of the 9 time points, for TC-002 and preserved latanoprost indicating substantial equivalence of TC-002 and preserved latanoprost. Diurnal IOP showed substantial similarity at all 3 time points evaluated. TC-002 was generally safe and well tolerated.

Example 2

[0207] A study was conducted to demonstrate the substantial equivalence of timolol ophthalmic solution preserved in a bottle with benzalkonium chloride (BAK) where the bottle is configured to prevent BAK from being delivered to the subject (Ttc) compared to commercially available, preserved timolol in reducing ocular pressure (IOP) in subjects. 40 subjects participated in the study. Prior to commencement of the study, there was up to a 4 week screening period before the baseline measurement of IOP was collected. After the baseline measurement was collected the subjects were randomized and separated into groups. Of the 40 subjects participatingin the study, 30 subjects were administered Ttc and 10 subjects were administered commercially available, preserved timolol. After commencement of the study, IOP was measured at day 7 and 28.

Results

[0208] No drug related adverse effects were observed during the study. The mean baseline measurement for subjects in both groups was nearly 24 mmHg. For the first measurement on day 7, the group administered Ttc demonstrated a mean IOP of about 18.9 mmHg compared to the group administered commercially available, preserved timolol where the mean IOP was about 19.9 mmHg. For the second measurement on day 28, the mean IOP was similar. In the group administered Ttc, the mean IOP was about 19.2 mmHg. The group administered commercially available, preserved timolol was about 20 mmHg. Both Ttc and commercially available, preserved latanoprost maintained IOP below the mean IOP collected before randomization. In particular, Ttc lowered IOP by about 1 mmHg more than commercially available, preserved timolol. Both Ttc and commercially available, preserved latanoprost maintained IOP under about 20 mmHg over the study period. In particular, Ttc maintained IOP under 19.5 mmHg overthe study period. A graph summarizing the data is found in FIG. 3B.

Example 3

[0209] A study was conducted to demonstrate the substantial equivalence of a non-limiting example embodiment of a solution, suspension, or emulsion described herein, TC-002 compared to commercially available, BAK preserved latanoprost ophthalmic solution 0.005% in reducing ocular pressure (IOP) in subjects. TC-002 is 0.005% latanoprost ophthalmic solution preserved in a bottle with benzalkonium chloride, (BAK) where the bottle is configured to prevent BAK from being delivered to the subject. 15 subjects participated in the study. Day 1 of the study involved screening the subjects and randomization of the subjects. After randomization, the 15 subjects were separated into groups. Of the 15 subjects participatingin the study, 10 subjects were administered TC-002 and 5 subjects were administered commercially available, BAK preserved latanoprost ophthalmic solution 0.005%. On day 1 of the study, a baseline measurement of IOP was measured in the right eye (OD) and left eye (OS) of subjects in both groups at 10 am. Over a 27 day period the 10 subjects in the TC-002 group were administered TC-002 once daily and the 5 subjects in the commercially available, BAK preserved latanoprost ophthalmic solution 0.005% group were administered commercially available, BAK preserved latanoprost ophthalmic solution 0.005% once daily. In addition to the baseline measured on day 1 , IOP of all subjects was measured in the right eye (OD) and the left eye (OS) at 10 AM on days 8, 15, and 27.

Results

[0210] The mean baseline IOP measurement for the TC-002 group was 18.1 mmHG(OD) and 18.0 (OS). The mean baseline IOP measurement for the commercially available, BAK preserved latanoprost ophthalmic solution group was 17.0 (OD) and 15.8 mmHg (OS). The mean day 8 IOP measurement for the TC-002 group was 17.8 mmHg (OD), a decrease of 0.3 mmHg from the baseline measurement and 18.2 mmHg (OS), an increase of .2 mmHg from the baseline measurement. The mean day 8 IOP measurement for the commercially available, BAK preserved latanoprost ophthalmic solution group was 16.4 mmHg (OD), a decrease of 0.6 mmHg from the baseline measurement and 17.2 mmHg (OS), an increase of 1 .4 mmHg from the baseline measurement. The mean day 15 IOP measurement for the TC-002 group was 18.7 mmHg (OD), an increase of 0.6 mmHg from the baseline measurement and 19.5 mmHg (OS), an increase of 1.5 mmHg from the baseline measurement. The mean day 15 IOP measurement for the commercially available, BAK preserved latanoprost ophthalmic solution group was 18 mmHg (OD), an increase of 1 .0 mmHg from the baseline measurement and 16.8 mmHg (OS), an increase of 1.0 mmHg from the baseline measurement. The mean day 27 IOP measurement for the TC-002 group was 16.6 mmHg (OD), a decrease of 1.5 mmHg from the baseline measurement and 17.0 mmHg (OS), an decrease of 1.0 mmHg from the baseline measurement. The mean day 27 IOP measurement for the commercially available, BAK preserved latanoprost ophthalmic solution group was 18 mmHg (OD), an increase of 1.0 mmHg from the baseline measurement and 17.4 mmHg (OS), an increase of 1.6 mmHg from the baseline measurement. Over the nearly four week period, both groups demonstrated maintained reduced IOP close to the baseline. As discussed herein, the normal range of IOP is between 10 and 1 mmHg, met by all groups for each measurement. Furthermore, the maintenance in IOP between the commercially available, BAK preserved latanoprost ophthalmic solution group and the TC-002 group indicated substantial equivalence between the ophthalmic solutions. The data and a graph summarizing the data can be found in FIGS. 4B-4D.

Example 4

[0211] An example method of demonstrating the substantial of the activity of commercially available preserved timolol to a solution, suspension, or emulsion comprising the ophthalmic agent timolol and a preservative comprising benzalkonium chloride wherein the activity is reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) in subjects. Such a method may be achieved by measuring the reduction of IOP in a subject administered commercially available, preserved timolol solution. Furthermore, measuring the reduction of IOP in a subject administered a solution, suspension, or emulsion comprising the ophthalmic agent timolol and a preservative comprising benzalkonium chloride wherein the solution, suspension, or emulsion is passed through a polymeric matrix selectively removing the preservative from the solution, suspension, or emulsion. Comparison of the two measurements may demonstrate their substantial equivalence in reducing IOP in subjects.

[0212] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in practicing the invention. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the invention and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.

Claims

CLAIMS WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A method for providing a hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprising: providing a solution, suspension, or emulsion comprising the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent and a preservative; and providing a polymeric matrix, the polymeric matrix configured such that an activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is substantially maintained and the preservative i s selectively removed in the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix.

2. A method for providing an ophthalmic agent comprising: applying pressure to a compressible bottle comprising an extended outlet, a polymeric matrix within the extended outlet, and a reservoir holding a solution, suspension, or emulsion comprising the ophthalmic agent and a preservative; and forming a drop comprising the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix, the polymeric matrix configured such that an activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is substantially maintained and the preservative is selectively removed in the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix.

3. A method for delivering a hydrophobic ophthalmic agent to an eye of a subject to reduce intraocular pressure comprising: applying pressure to a compressible bottle comprising an extended outlet, a polymeric matrix within the extended outlet, and a reservoir holding a solution, suspension, or emulsion comprising the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent and a preservative; and forming a drop comprising the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix, the polymeric matrix configured such that an activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is substantially maintained and the preservative is selectively removed in the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix.

4. The method of any one of preceding claims, wherein the polymeric matrix is configured such that the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix maintains at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90% of an activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix.

5. The method of any one of preceding claims, wherein the polymeric matrix is configured such that the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix maintains less than 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, or 10% of the preservative as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix.

6. The method of any one of preceding claims, wherein the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises reducing an intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye.

7. The method of any one of preceding claims, wherein the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises treating ocular hypertension, or open angle glaucoma, or a combination thereof.

8. The method of any one of preceding claims, wherein the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises improving visual acuity.

9. The method of any one of preceding claims, wherein the reducing IOP comprises reducing IOP by at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 mmHg.

10. The method of any one of preceding claims, wherein the reducing IOP comprises reducing IOP to 21 , 20, 19, or 18 mmHg or lower.

11 . The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises maintaining the intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye below at least 25, 24, 23, 22, or 21 mmHg.

12. The method of any one of preceding claims, wherein the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix reduces IOP within 2 mmHg as compared to the solution, suspension, or emulsion without passing through the polymeric matrix.

13. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises maintaining the intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye below at least 25, 24, 23, 22, or 21 mmHg.

14. The method of any one of preceding claims, wherein the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises latanoprost, timolol, brinzolamide, brimonidine, travoprost, bimatoprost, netarsudil, latanoprostbunod, dorzolamide, or aceclidine, or a combination thereof.

15. The method of any one of preceding claims, wherein the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent comprises latanoprost, bimatoprost, dexamethasone, cyclosporine, travoprost, or a prostaglandin analog drug, or a combination thereof.

16. The method of any one of preceding claims, wherein a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is less than 500 millimolar.

17. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is between 0.01% (w/w) and 1.5% (w/w).

18. The method of any one of preceding claims, wherein a concentration of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agentis less than 0.3% (w/w).

19. The method of any one of preceding claims, wherein the preservative is benzalkonium chloride.

20. The method of any one of preceding claims, where a concentration of the preservative is less than 0.05% (w/w).

21. The method of any one of preceding claims, wherein the polymeric matrix is a polymeric hydrogel.

22. The method of any one of preceding claims, wherein the polymeric matrix comprises crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone, crosslinked polyethylene oxide, crosslinked polyacrylamides, crosslinked copolymers of methacrylic acid, polyacrylic acid, or copolymers selected from poly (acrylic acid-co-acrylamide), or poly (methacrylic acid-co-acrylamide), or a combination thereof.

23. The method of any one of preceding claims, wherein the polymeric matrix comprises a hydrogel prepared from polyacrylamide crosslinked with at least one crosslinking monomer selected from N,N’-methylenebis(acrylamide) (MB AM), triacrylamido triazine (TATZ), SR

351 , or SR9035 ; and the crosslinked polyacrylamide is modified with at least one modifying monomer selected from methyl methacrylate (MAA), 2-acrylamido-2 -methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS), 2 -sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM), acrylic acid (AA), orvinylphosphonic acid (VP).

24. The method of any one of preceding claims, wherein the polymeric matrix is hydrogel prepared from polyacrylamide crosslinked with at least one crosslinking monomer selected from N,N’-methylenebis(acrylamide) (MB AM), triacrylamido triazine (TATZ), SR 351, or SR9035; the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is isolated; and the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is modified with at least one modifying monomer selected from methyl methacrylate (MAA), 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS), 2-sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM), acrylic acid (AA), orvinylphosphonic acid (VP).

25. The method of claim 24, wherein the crosslinked polyacrylamide material is isolated in the form of spherical beads.

26. The method of claim 24 or claim 25, wherein the at least one modifying monomer comprises 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS) or 2-sulfoethyl methacrylate (SEM).

27. The method of any one of preceding claims, wherein the solution, suspension, or emulsion further comprises a complexing agent.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein the complexing agent and the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent form an inclusion compound.

29. The method of claim 27, wherein the complexing agent is configured to reduce an affinity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent for the polymeric matrix.

30. The method of claim 27, wherein the complexing agent comprises a cyclodextrin.

31. The method of claim 30, wherein the cyclodextrin is sized to host the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent within a hydrophobic interior of the cyclodextrin.

32. The method of claim 30, wherein the cyclodextrin is at least one of (2-Hydroxypropyl)- a-cyclodextrin, (2-Hydroxypropyl)-P-cyclodextrin, (2-Hydroxypropyl)-y-cyclodextrin, a- cyclodextrin, P -cyclodextrin, y-cyclodextrin, methyl-a-cyclodextrin, methyl-P-cyclodextrin, methyl-y-cyclodextrin, dimethyl-beta-cyclodextrin, highly sulphated-beta-cyclodextrin, 6- monodeoxy-6-N-mono(3 -hydroxy )propylamino-beta-cyclodextrin, or a randomly or selectively substituted alpha, beta or gamma cyclodextrin.

33. The method of claim 27, wherein a concentration of the complexing agent is less than 200 micromolar.

34. The method of any one of preceding claims, wherein the polymeric matrix comprises an active matrix component and an inactive matrix component.

35. The method of claim 34, wherein the inactive matrix component has substantially no affinity for the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent or the preservative.

36. The method of claim 34 or claim 35, wherein the active polymeric matrix component is a polymeric hydrogel.

37. The method of claim 34 or claim 35, wherein the inactive polymeric matrix component is a polyolefin.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein the polyolefin is a polyethylene, polypropylene or copolymers thereof.

39. The method of claim 38, wherein the polyolefin is a low-density polyethylene (LDPE).

40. A multi-dosing delivery device for dispensing a hydrophobic ophthalmic agent, the device comprising: a bottle having an extended outlet; a polymeric matrix dispensed within the extended outlet; and a reservoir configured to hold a solution, suspension, or emulsion comprising the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent and a preservative, wherein the polymeric matrix is configured such that an activity of the hydrophobic ophthalmic agent is substantially maintained and the preservative is selectively removed in the solution, suspension, or emulsion after passing through the polymeric matrix.