Innovative PLA or PCL-Based Ocular Implants Obtained From Tape Casting or Electrospinning for Sustained-Release Dexamethasone

Bioabsorbable ocular implant systems were developed for controlled dexamethasone delivery using poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) and polylactic acid (PLA) fabricated by electrospinning and tape casting. Tape casting was explored for the first time in ocular applications and compared with electrospun systems in terms of physicochemical properties, drug loading, release behavior, and biological performance. Dexamethasone release was monitored by UV–Vis spectrophotometry at 3, 24, 48, 120, and 144 h, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the presence of characteristic drug bands. The materials were incubated in phosphate-buffered saline at 35°C for up to 28 days, showing degradation of approximately 5% for PCL and 8% for PLA. In vitro MTT and scratch assays indicated biocompatibility above 75% for all biomaterials. Drug release was progressive and controlled, reaching up to 66 μg/mL for PCL-based systems and 21 μg/mL for PLA-based systems. Overall, tape casting proved technically feasible and showed performance comparable to electrospinning, supporting its potential use in implantable ocular drug delivery systems. The association of PCL or PLA with dexamethasone appears to be a promising strategy for sustained ophthalmic therapy.