Indications
Fluorometholone is a corticosteroid eye drop used to reduce inflammation of the front of the eye that responds to steroids, such as allergic conjunctivitis, inflammation of the eyelids, conjunctiva, cornea or front part of the eye (anterior uveitis), and inflammation after eye surgery. Some products combine it with an antibiotic for use when infection is also present or likely.
How It Works
Fluorometholone is a steroid that calms the immune response in the eye tissues. It reduces swelling, redness, itching and the release of inflammatory chemicals. It tends to raise eye pressure less than some stronger eye steroids.
Dosage and Administration
The usual adult dose is 1 to 2 drops into the affected eye 2 to 4 times a day, as prescribed. In the first 1 to 2 days the doctor may advise more frequent use. Shake the bottle well before use. Do not stop suddenly after long use; the doctor will reduce the frequency gradually.
- Wash your hands, tilt your head back, pull down the lower lid and place the drop without touching the eye or lashes with the tip.
- Remove contact lenses before use and wait at least 15 minutes before putting them back.
- Leave 5 minutes between different eye drops.
Interactions
Using other steroid medicines (eye drops, tablets or inhalers) at the same time may increase the risk of raised eye pressure. Ritonavir, Cobicistat and other strong enzyme inhibitors may increase steroid effects. Tell your doctor about all medicines, especially glaucoma drops.
Contraindications
- Allergy to Fluorometholone or any ingredient.
- Viral eye infections, including herpes simplex keratitis, chickenpox or vaccinia of the eye.
- Fungal or tuberculous infections of the eye.
- Untreated bacterial eye infection (unless combined with an appropriate antibiotic and prescribed).
Side Effects
Common effects include brief stinging or burning, blurred vision just after use, and eye irritation. Longer use can raise the pressure inside the eye (which may lead to glaucoma), cause cataract, slow wound healing and increase the risk of eye infections.
Get urgent medical help if you notice eye pain, worsening redness, a sudden change in vision, seeing halos around lights, discharge from the eye, or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the eyelids or face.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Use in pregnancy and breastfeeding only if the doctor advises it, for the shortest time needed. Pressing on the inner corner of the eye for a minute after each drop reduces the amount absorbed into the body.
Precautions and Warnings
Use only under medical supervision. If used for more than 10 days, eye pressure should be checked regularly. Do not use it for an undiagnosed red eye, as steroids can hide or worsen infections. Children may be more likely to develop raised eye pressure. Do not share the bottle, and discard it 4 weeks after opening unless the label says otherwise.
Overdose
Using too many drops at once is unlikely to cause harm; rinse the eye with clean water if needed. If the drops are swallowed, especially by a child, contact a doctor.
Therapeutic Class
Ophthalmic corticosteroid.
Storage
Store below 30°C, away from light, with the cap tightly closed. Do not freeze. Keep out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.