What Filtration Processes are Used in the Ophthalmic Solutions Production?

The ophthalmic solution is a sterile preparation, which is mainly composed of water for injection and inorganic salts. It can be used to sore contact lenses and eye treatments, etc. Because ophthalmic solutions are required to meet sterile standards, a filtration system will be installed to remove microorganisms, bacteria and other contaminants. The filtration system generally includes: sterilization pre-filtration system, sterilization filtration system and vent filtration system.

1. Sterilization Pre-filtration Process

The sterilization pre-filtration process is generally installed downstream of the mixing liquid tank, and its main function is to intercept the incompletely dissolved salts, microorganisms and other pollutants in the mixing liquid tank, protect the downstream sterilization filtration system, improve filtration efficiency and extend service life. The equipment of the pre-filtration system generally uses Sanitary Stainless Steel Filter Housings, and the filter consumables generally use PP Pleated Filters or Glass Fiber Pleated Filters.

2. Sterilization Filtration Process

The sterilization filtration process is usually used in the downstream of the pre-filtration process and the liquid storage tank. Its purpose is to remove contaminants such as microorganisms, bacteria and viruses in the ophthalmic solution, and to ensure that the ophthalmic solution meets the sterile hygienic standard. Sanitary SUS316L Filter Housings are generally used for the equipment of the sterilization filtration system, and the filtration consumables are usually use Hydrophilic PES Membrane Pleated Filters or Hydrophilic PTFE Membrane Pleated Filters.

3. Vent Filtration Process

The vent filtration process is generally installed in the mixing liquid tank and the liquid storage tank. The main function is to prevent microorganisms, particles and other pollutants in the air form entering the tank to cause the pollution of the ophthalmic solution. The equipment of the vent filter system generally uses Sanitary SUS316L Filter Housings, and the filter consumables usually use Hydrophobic PTFE Membrane Pleated Filters with a filtration accuracy of 0.2 micron.

The composition and viscosity of ophthalmic solutions for different purposes will be different, and some ophthalmic solutions add very few preservatives. Therefore, when designing a filtration system, do not use use filtration consumables that have adsorption function or react with preservatives.