Products
Fluorometholone is commercially available in the form of eye drops (FML Liquifilm). A fixed combination with neomycin (FML-Neo Liquifilm) is also available. Fluorometholone has been approved in many countries since 1973.
Structure and properties
Fluorometholone (C22H29FO4, Mr = 376.5 g/mol) is a fluorinated and lipophilic glucocorticoid structurally related to progesterone. It is present in drugs as a suspension. The acetylated derivative fluorometholone acetate is not commercially available in many countries.
Effects
Fluorometholone (ATC S01BA07) has anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and antiallergic properties.
Indications
Noninfectious inflammation of the conjunctiva, eyelids, eyeball, cornea, and anterior segment. Combination preparations with neomycin are also used to treat infectious diseases of the eye.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. Usually, 1 to 2 drops are placed in the conjunctival sac of the eye 2 to 4 times daily. It may be administered more frequently (hourly) for the first two days. The vial must be shaken well before use! See also under Administering eye drops.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Viral infectious diseases of the eye
- Mycobacterial infections of the eye
- Fungal diseases of the eye
- Glaucoma
- Children
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions are possible with antiglaucomatous and anticholinergic agents. Other ophthalmic agents should be administered at least 15 minutes apart.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include local reactions to the eye, such as rash around the eye, hypersensitivity reactions, dilatation of the pupils, corneal damage, increase in intraocular pressure, and development of glaucoma.
