Fluorometholone - ophthalmic


Patient Medicine Information
Why do I need this medicine?
Fluorometholone is used to help relieve inflammation of the eye.
How do I use this medicine?
Use Fluorometholone exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by the doctor.

This medicine is available as eye drop suspension or eye ointment.

To use the eye drop suspension:
  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before using the eye drops.
  2. Shake the bottle well before using.
  3. Tilt your head slightly backwards. With the index finger, pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to form a pouch. Look upward and instil the required number of drops inside the lower eyelid.
  4. Gently close your eyes and keep them closed for at least 30 seconds.
  5. Wipe any excess liquid from your face with a clean tissue.
  6. Replace and tighten the cap of the bottle.
To use the eye ointment:
  1. Wash and dry your hands before applying the ointment.
  2. With your index finger, pull the lower eyelid down the eye to form a pouch.
  3. Hold the tube with your other hand and place the tip as near to your lower eyelid as possible without touching it. Squeeze a thin strip of ointment (about 1/2 inch ribbon) into the pouch.
  4. Gently close your eyes and keep them closed for a few minutes.
  5. Wipe any excess ointment from the eyelids and lashes with a clean tissue. With another clean tissue, wipe the tip of the tube clean.
  6. Replace and tighten the cap of the tube.
  7. Wash your hands to remove any medication.
Do not allow the tip of the dropper or tube of Fluorometholone to touch your eyes, eyelids or any other surface. Recap the eye drop or tube immediately after use. If the eye drop or ointment tube becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eyes.

If you have been given another eye drop to be used together with this medicine, wait for at least 5 minutes before applying the second eye drop.

Do not share your eye drop or eye ointment with anyone else.

Some brands of Fluorometholone contain benzalkonium chloride as a preservative. This may discolour soft contact lenses and cause eye irritation. If you are wearing contact lenses, you should remove it before applying this medicine. Wait for at least 15 minutes before reinserting your lenses.

The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type and severity of your condition.
What should I do if I have forgotten to use this medicine?
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose to make up for a missed dose.

If you often forget to use your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
When should I not use this medicine?
Alert your doctor if you have any viral, bacterial or fungal infection of the eye as Fluorometholone may not be suitable for you.
What should I take note of while using this medicine?
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
  • glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
  • history of eye infection caused by herpes simplex virus
  • recent cataract surgery
  • undiagnosed red eye
  • disease that causes thinning of the layer of the eye
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

For as long as you are using Fluorometholone, you may need to have your eyes checked regularly. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have this test.
What side effects could I experience?
You may experience some problems with your eyesight, such as blurred vision. Always keep your doctor updated of any changes in your eyesight. If you cannot see clearly, avoid driving and any activity in which you need to be alert.

Other side effects may include any of the following: irritation, itching, pain, swelling, redness, burning and stinging sensation of the eye, eyelid swelling, changes in taste, and skin rash.

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Can I use this with other medicines?
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are using NSAIDs (medicines for pain and inflammation) that are applied into the eyes.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
How should I store this medicine?
Store below 25°C, away from the reach of children. Do not freeze.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.

Throw away any remaining eye drops or ointments 4 weeks after opening. Mark the date of opening on the eye drop bottle or ointment tube so that you know when to discard it.
This information is independently developed by MIMS based on fluorometholone - ophthalmic and is provided for your reference only. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and/or the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2024 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com
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