COA Ophthalmic Tech Practice Exam

The principal delivery systems for ophthalmic medication primarily include topical, injectable, and oral routes.

Topical delivery refers to medications applied directly to the eye surface, such as eye drops or ointments. This is the most common method for treating various ocular conditions since it allows for direct contact with the target site, ensuring localized treatment.

Injectable medications are typically used for conditions requiring more immediate or systemic effects, such as intraocular injections for diseases like diabetic macular edema or retinal vein occlusion. This route provides rapid delivery of the medication into the eye or surrounding tissues.

Oral delivery is another method utilized in ophthalmic practice, especially for systemic medications that can influence eye health or treat conditions like glaucoma and inflammation. By administering the medication via the oral route, it allows for the treatment of conditions affecting the eye indirectly through systemic circulation.

In contrast, options that mention inhaled, patch, or sublingual methods are not standard delivery systems for ophthalmic medications, as these methods are either more suited for respiratory conditions or do not effectively deliver medications directly to the eye.