Pediatric use of topical ophthalmic drugs.
BACKGROUND
Changes in the policies of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have resulted in a rapid increase in the number of drugs now labeled for pediatric use. In topical ophthalmic drugs, there are pharmaceuticals approved for use in children in the treatment of allergy, inflammation, and bacterial and viral infection. Clinicians should anticipate that this trend will continue into the future.


BACKGROUND
This article reviews the history of FDA oversight of drugs used to treat children. Recent shifts in policies and approach are emphasized. Pediatric issues associated with ophthalmic drug use are discussed, including important differences regarding dosage, instillation, distribution, systemic toxicity, and metabolism. A summary of topical ophthalmic drugs approved for pediatric use, including age considerations, is provided.


CONCLUSIONS
Clinicians should be aware of the increasing number of topical ophthalmic drugs that are approved for pediatric use. Social, regulatory, and economic factors suggest this trend will continue. When prescribing these drugs for use in children, clinicians should remember to refer to details of labeling for Pediatric Use, including the age of the child for whom the drug is approved.
Nova Southeastern University, College of Optometry, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33328, USA. staceyco@nova.edu
Rachel Anastasia
RA
Coulter
D000287:Administration, Topical; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D017277:Drug Approval; D011307:Drug Prescriptions; D004363:Drug Utilization; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007880:Legislation, Drug; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D014481:United States; D014486:United States Food and Drug Administration
D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations