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FML Liquifilm Eye Drops (Fluorometholone) Information

FML Liquifilm Eye Drops (fluorometholone) is a relatively low-potency corticosteroid formulated as an ophthalmic suspension. It is indicated for the treatment of steroid-responsive inflammation of the palpebral and bulbar conjunctiva, cornea, and anterior segment of the globe. It is commonly used to manage conditions such as allergic conjunctivitis, non-infectious keratitis (corneal inflammation), and post-ocular-surgery inflammation. Compared to more potent steroids (like difluprednate), fluorometholone is often favoured for inflammation management when there is concern about the risks associated with long-term steroid use, particularly elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). The drops are applied to the affected eye(s), typically 2 to 4 times daily or as directed by a doctor.

The mechanism of action for fluorometholone is its potent anti-inflammatory effect. As a synthetic glucocorticoid, it penetrates cell membranes and binds to specific receptors within the cell nucleus. This interaction alters the expression of numerous genes, specifically inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators like prostaglandins and leukotrienes. By inhibiting phospholipase A2, fluorometholone prevents the entire inflammatory cascade. This suppresses the body's natural immune response to injury or irritation, reducing swelling, redness, and pain. Fluorometholone is designed to have a reduced tendency to penetrate the anterior chamber of the eye compared to other steroids, which is thought to correlate with a lower risk of causing steroid-induced intraocular pressure elevation (glaucoma), though the risk is not eliminated.

FML Liquifilm Eye Drops Side Effects

As an ophthalmic steroid, FML Liquifilm's side effects are primarily localized. Common side effects are generally mild and include temporary discomfort, stinging, or burning upon application. Other frequent, mild effects are transient blurred vision due to the suspension vehicle, ocular irritation, and watering of the eyes.

However, more serious side effects can occur, particularly if the drops are used for longer than the prescribed duration. If any of the following symptoms are experienced, the patient should stop using the drops and seek immediate medical attention:

• Delayed Wound Healing: Steroids can slow the healing of corneal wounds or abrasions, a significant concern following eye surgery or injury.

• Elevated Intraocular Pressure (IOP) / Glaucoma: The most serious risk of any ophthalmic steroid use is a significant increase in pressure within the eye, which can lead to damage to the optic nerve and vision loss if not carefully monitored.

• Posterior Subcapsular Cataracts: Prolonged or repeated courses of ophthalmic corticosteroids are linked to the development of cataracts, which cause clouding of the lens and impair vision.

• Secondary Ocular Infections: Due to the immunosuppressant nature of the steroid, the eye becomes more vulnerable to secondary infections from fungi, viruses (especially Herpes simplex), or bacteria, which can be challenging to treat and severely damage vision.

FML Liquifilm Eye Drops Precautions

FML Liquifilm (fluorometholone) is for ophthalmic use only and must not be injected or swallowed. Because of the risk of elevated Intraocular Pressure (IOP), patients must be monitored regularly by an eye care professional, especially if the treatment lasts longer than 10 days. The drug is contraindicated in most viral diseases of the cornea and conjunctiva, particularly active Herpes simplex keratitis, as the steroid can rapidly exacerbate the infection. It is also contraindicated in mycobacterial or fungal ocular infections. Patients should be warned about the potential for secondary infections. To ensure proper administration, the bottle must be shaken well before use to resuspend the active ingredient, and the dropper tip must not touch any surface to prevent contamination. Contact lenses should typically be removed before instillation and not reinserted for 15 minutes after application, as this formulation contains the preservative benzalkonium chloride. If symptoms fail to improve within 2 days or worsen, the diagnosis should be re-evaluated immediately by a doctor.

Do I need a prescription to order FML Liquifilm Eye Drops?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order FML Liquifilm Eye Drops.