1. Ozurdex Ozurdex is a biodegradable implant of dexamethasone. It is an intravitreal implant that delivers sustained relase of 0.7mg of dexamethasone to the retine and vitreous. It uses NOVADOR drug delivery technology. NOVADOR is a biodegradable material that is combined with the active drug, in this case demaxethasone, to form a small rod shaped implant of 0.46mm in width and 6mm in length. It dissolves in vitreous gel and slowly releases the drug.

2. Ozurdex Why Ozurdex? Its potency Its dose consistency Extended duration of Action Minimal adverse effects- better safety profile Biodegradable- it does not need to be retrieved and can be repeatedly aministered. Improves visual acuity and macular thickness. Controls inflammation. Treats macular edema, posterior non infectious uveitis, diabetic and psudophakic macula edema. Why not Ozurdex? It has a shorter durability of its effect (~ 3-4 months) in comparison to retinal vein occlusion (~6months). The retention of the Ozurdex implant in the vitreous cavity is a challenge. When administering to treat uveitis adverse effects include: cataract formation, intraocular pressure elevation, subconjuctival hemorrhage, hyperemia and conjunctival edema.

3. Materials Dexamethasone is a widely used corticosteroid for the treatment of systemic inflammatory conditions. It's hydrophilicity allows for higher vitreous concentration compared to retisert, but it is shorter acting in the vitreous. It has a half life of ~5 hours. The sustained release of dexamethasone drug delivery system (ozurdex) is made of a solid biodegradable polymer composed of apolylactic acid-co-gylcolic acid (PLGA) matrix. This matrix dissolves completely in vivo into it's components, lactic acid and glycolic acid. These products are in turn converted into Co2 and H2O which can be easily eliminated by ocular tissue.