Development, Characterization and Review of Quercetin-Loaded Mixed Micellar Eye Drops for the Treatment of Dry Eye Disease

Dry Eye Disease (DED) is a multifactorial ocular disorder characterized by tear film instability, inflammation, and oxidative stress, leading to discomfort and visual disturbance. Conventional treatments such as artificial tears provide only temporary relief and fail to address underlying oxidative damage. Quercetin, a natural flavonoid, possesses potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties but suffers from poor aqueous solubility, limiting its therapeutic application in ophthalmic delivery. The present review focuses on the development and evaluation of quercetin-loaded mixed micellar eye drops as a novel drug delivery system for DED. Mixed micelles prepared using non-ionic surfactants such as Polysorbate 80 and Polysorbate 20 enhance solubility, stability, and ocular bioavailability of quercetin. The formulation was evaluated for physicochemical parameters including pH, viscosity, clarity, drug content, micelle size, and in-vitro drug release. The results indicated improved solubility, sustained drug release, and good stability under ICH conditions. Thus, quercetin-loaded mixed micellar systems represent a promising approach for effective management of Dry Eye Disease. However, further clinical studies are required to confirm their safety and therapeutic efficacy.