In Brazil, researchers are developing an innovative CBD eye drop

Researchers from the’University of São Paulo (USP) in Brazil have developed a an innovative cannabidiol (CBD)-based eye drop formula which could open up new therapeutic possibilities in ophthalmology.

This project, conducted at USP's Ribeirão Preto campus, brings together scientists from the Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine (FMRP) and Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences (FCFRP).

Their goal is to address a persistent challenge in the field of eye care: treat inflammation and chronic eye pain without exposing patients to the potentially serious side effects of existing treatments.

Corticosteroids, which are frequently prescribed for inflammatory eye conditions, can contribute to the development of cataracts and an increase in intraocular pressure, particularly with prolonged use.

The Brazilian team hopes that a CBD-based nanoemulsion could eventually serve as an alternative, although additional evidence will be needed to establish its long-term safety and clinical efficacy.

A nanotechnology designed to improve the delivery of CBD

The innovation lies not only in the use of the cannabidiol, but also in the technology developed to administer it. Researchers have created a nanoemulsion, a formulation containing extremely small droplets that facilitate the delivery of active ingredients to biological tissues.

Administering therapeutic compounds to the eye is particularly difficult because natural protective barriers limit the penetration of medications. According to Eduardo Melani Rocha, a professor at the USP School of Medicine and one of the researchers involved, the fThis formulation was designed to overcome this obstacle.

«A nanoemulsion is a strategy designed to ensure that the drug effectively penetrates the ocular tissue and is released gradually.»

This approach aims to improve the distribution of CBD within ocular tissues while allowing its effects to develop gradually. The researchers also note the presence, in the eye, of receptors that interact with cannabinoid signaling pathways, which provides a biological rationale for studying the anti-inflammatory properties and CBD pain relievers.

Initial results are encouraging, but further evidence is needed

This project is based on years of research devoted to therapeutic potential of cannabinoids conducted at USP. By combining ophthalmological expertise with research in pharmaceutical formulation, the team studied this technology through preclinical and human trials, according to the university.

Preliminary results suggest that the nanoemulsion may cause less irritation than some alternative formulations. The researchers also reported a potential effect on the intraocular pressure, an important factor in ophthalmology, particularly for patients with glaucoma-related conditions.

Despite these promising prospects, USP CBD eye drops are not yet available on the market.

The researchers have filed a patent application with the’National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) from Brazil, while the scientific findings were submitted to the’American Journal of Ophthalmology. The next step will be to find pharmaceutical partners capable of handling manufacturing, regulatory procedures, and potential commercialization.