Fluorometholone

How it works

It is a glucocorticoid that binds corticosteroid receptors to suppress inflammatory mediators and reduce vascular permeability and leucocyte activity in the eye, with a relatively lower propensity to raise intraocular pressure than some other steroids.

Prescribing in practice

• Even with its comparatively lower pressure-raising tendency, prolonged use can still increase intraocular pressure and promote cataract and may mask or worsen infection, so ophthalmic supervision is needed.
• It is contraindicated in untreated infective eye conditions, including herpes simplex (dendritic) keratitis and most acute purulent infections.
• Prolonged courses should be tapered rather than stopped abruptly.

Monitoring

Monitor intraocular pressure with prolonged use and review for signs of infection or lens changes.

Counselling the patient

• Shake the bottle if instructed and use the drops exactly as prescribed.
• Report any eye pain, reduced vision or worsening redness.
• Attend follow-up so your eye pressure can be checked.

Evidence & guidelines

Topical corticosteroids such as fluorometholone are established for steroid-responsive ocular inflammation, with use guided by the SPC.