FML Forte (Fluoromethalone)

Description

Indications

Fluoromethalone is prescribed to address specific eye conditions resulting from inflammation or injury. This medication operates by alleviating symptoms such as swelling, redness, and itching in the eyes. It falls within the class of drugs referred to as corticosteroids.

Uses and Dosage

If your doctor hasn’t advised otherwise, avoid wearing contact lenses while using this medication. Follow the lens sterilization instructions from the manufacturer and consult your doctor before reinitiating their use.

If your doctor permits contact lens use during treatment, remove them before applying the eye drops. The preservative in the eye drops could be absorbed by the lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes after using the eye drops before reinserting your contact lenses.

If you’re using other eye medications, allow a gap of 5 to 10 minutes before applying another medication. Administer eye drops before using eye ointments to facilitate proper entry of the drops into the eye.

Consistently use this medication at the same time each day for maximum benefit. Adhering to the prescribed dosage and treatment duration is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Avoid using this medication more frequently or for a longer duration than prescribed, as it could heighten the risk of side effects.

Continue using this medication for the entire prescribed duration. Do not discontinue without consulting your doctor, as stopping suddenly might exacerbate certain conditions. Your doctor may advise a gradual decrease in dosage if needed.

To administer the eye drops, the following steps should be followed:

1. Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water.
2. Do not allow the dropper tip to touch the eye or any other surface, and ensure that it is kept clean.
3. Tilt the head back and pull down the lower lid of the eye using the index finger to form a pocket.
4. Hold the dropper as close to the eye as possible without making contact, and brace the remaining fingers against the face.
5. Squeeze the dropper gently to instill a single drop in the pocket created by the lower eyelid while looking upwards.
6. Remove the index finger from the lower eyelid and keep the eye closed for 2-3 minutes while tilting the head down.
7. Apply gentle pressure to the tear duct using a finger.
8. Use a tissue to wipe off any excess liquid from the face.
9. Wash hands to remove any residual medication.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• burning and stinging sensation when medicine is applied
• drooping upper eyelids
• feeling of having something in the eye

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• bigger, dilated, or enlarged pupils (black part of the eye)
• blurred vision or other change in vision
• burning, dry, or itching eyes
• decreased vision
• delayed wound healing
• discharge from eye
• headache
• increased sensitivity of the eyes to light

Caution

• Before using fluorometholone, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies, especially if you are allergic to fluorometholone or have allergies to any inactive ingredients in the product.
• Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication, particularly if you have had eye infections, recent eye surgery, cataracts, open-angle glaucoma, severe nearsightedness (myopia), or diabetes.
• After applying this medication, your vision may be temporarily blurred. Avoid activities such as driving, using machinery, or any task that requires clear vision until you can do so safely.
• If you experience a new eye infection or injury or if you require eye surgery, consult your doctor about whether you should continue using the current bottle of fluorometholone eye drops or start a new one.
• During pregnancy, use this medication only when necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
• It is unclear whether this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding to ensure a well-informed decision regarding its use during lactation.

Form and Strength

FML Forte is available in the following forms and strengths:

• FML Forte eye drops:
  • 0.25 %

FAQ

How long after taking FML Forte should I start to feel better?

The inflammation and pain in your eye should get better within 2 days after using FML Forte.

Can FML Forte be used in children?

FML Forte can be used in children 2 years and older.

Resources

1. https://www.goodrx.com/fluorometholone/what-is#faqs
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/fluorometholone-ophthalmic-route/side-effects/drg-20060781
3. https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/fluorometholone-ophthalmic-suspension#side-effects
4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6796/fml-forte-ophthalmic-eye/details
5. https://www.drugs.com/cdi/fml-forte.html#side-effects