Fluorescein Sodium 2% Eye Drops

How it works

The dye fluoresces under blue light and collects where the corneal or conjunctival epithelium is disrupted, highlighting abrasions, ulcers and other surface defects.

Prescribing in practice

• Soft contact lenses should be removed before instillation because fluorescein permanently stains them, and reinsertion should be delayed as advised.
• It is a diagnostic agent only and does not treat the underlying condition, so abnormal findings need appropriate management.
• Single-use minims reduce the risk of contamination, which is important given fluorescein solutions can support microbial growth.

Monitoring

No systemic monitoring is required for topical use; interpret the staining pattern to guide diagnosis.

Counselling the patient

• Your tears may appear yellow-green briefly after the drops.
• Remove soft contact lenses beforehand and wait as advised before reinserting them.
• Report any persistent eye pain or visual disturbance.

Evidence & guidelines

Topical fluorescein is a long-established diagnostic dye for ocular surface assessment, with use guided by the SPC.