Pharmacology, clinical efficacy and safety of nepafenac ophthalmic suspension

Abstract

Nepafenac is a member of the new class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory prodrugs for ophthalmic use, providing a novel drug delivery mechanism. The analgesic and antiinflammatory effect of nepafenac is the result of its fast penetration through the cornea, as well as its potent effect after conversion to its more active metabolite, amfenac. Nepafenac is well tolerated and effective for the prevention and treatment of inflammation and ocular pain associated with cataract surgery. The combination of nepafenac and topical steroids appears to be effective in preventing visually significant pseudophakic cystoid macular edema after cataract surgery.

Nepafenac: An Ophthalmic Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drug for Pain After Cataract Surgery

“…14 The benefits of increased permeability include a decrease in adverse events on the eye surface, decreased time to maximum concentration (C max ) of the drug, and increased patient comfort during administration. 15…”