Why is this medication prescribed?

Flurbiprofen ophthalmic is a medication primarily prescribed for the treatment of eye inflammation and pain following cataract surgery. It belongs to the class of drugs known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which work by reducing inflammation and pain.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Flurbiprofen ophthalmic is typically used:

• Dosage: The usual recommended dose for adults is one drop in the affected eye(s) four times daily, starting 24 hours after cataract surgery and continuing for up to two weeks.
• Administration: Before using Flurbiprofen ophthalmic, wash your hands thoroughly. Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper directly over the eye and apply the prescribed number of drops into the eye. Avoid touching the tip of the dropper to prevent contamination.
• Contact lenses: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying Flurbiprofen ophthalmic. You should wait at least 15 minutes after using the medication before reinserting your lenses.
• Duration: Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the duration of treatment. Typically, treatment with Flurbiprofen ophthalmic lasts for up to two weeks following cataract surgery.
• Storage: Store Flurbiprofen ophthalmic at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
• Missed dose: If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply extra drops to make up for a missed dose.

It’s essential to use Flurbiprofen ophthalmic exactly as prescribed by your doctor and not to exceed the recommended dosage or duration of treatment. If you experience any adverse effects or have concerns about the medication, consult your healthcare provider promptly.

Other uses for this medicine

Flurbiprofen ophthalmic is primarily used for treating inflammation and pain following cataract surgery. However, it may also be prescribed off-label for other eye conditions involving inflammation and pain, such as anterior uveitis or ocular trauma. Off-label use means that the medication is being used for a purpose not approved by regulatory agencies but based on clinical judgment and evidence.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be taken when using Flurbiprofen ophthalmic:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies, especially to NSAIDs or any other medications. This is important to prevent potential allergic reactions to Flurbiprofen ophthalmic.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using Flurbiprofen ophthalmic with your doctor. It’s important to weigh the potential risks to the fetus or infant against the benefits of treatment.
• Eye conditions: Inform your doctor about any pre-existing eye conditions you may have, such as dry eye syndrome or glaucoma. Flurbiprofen ophthalmic may worsen certain eye conditions, so your doctor will need to consider this when prescribing the medication.
• Contact lenses: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying Flurbiprofen ophthalmic. Wait at least 15 minutes after using the medication before reinserting your lenses to avoid potential interactions.
• Eye irritation: Flurbiprofen ophthalmic may cause temporary blurred vision or other visual disturbances after application. Avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision has cleared.
• Medication interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Flurbiprofen ophthalmic. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter medications.
• Use in children: The safety and effectiveness of Flurbiprofen ophthalmic in pediatric patients have not been established. Use in children should be under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
• Overuse: Do not exceed the prescribed dosage or duration of treatment with Flurbiprofen ophthalmic, as this may increase the risk of adverse effects.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and heed any additional precautions provided with the medication. If you experience any concerning symptoms or side effects while using Flurbiprofen ophthalmic, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions for Flurbiprofen Ophthalmic, there are typically none. However, it’s always a good idea to maintain a healthy diet, unless your doctor advises otherwise.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Flurbiprofen Ophthalmic, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply extra drops to make up for a missed dose. If you have any concerns or questions about missed doses, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Flurbiprofen ophthalmic, like any medication, can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects may include:

• Eye Irritation: This may manifest as stinging, burning, itching, or redness in the eye where the medication is applied.
• Blurred Vision: Flurbiprofen ophthalmic can temporarily affect vision, causing blurred or hazy vision immediately after application.
• Sensitivity to Light: Some individuals may experience increased sensitivity to light (photophobia) after using Flurbiprofen ophthalmic.
• Eye Discomfort: This may include sensations such as foreign body sensation or discomfort in the eye.
• Eye Dryness: Flurbiprofen ophthalmic might cause temporary dryness in the eyes.
• Eye Redness: Redness of the eye may occur as a side effect of using Flurbiprofen ophthalmic.
• Eyelid Swelling: Swelling or puffiness of the eyelids can occur in some cases.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches after using Flurbiprofen ophthalmic.
• Taste Changes: Occasionally, individuals may report a temporary change in taste after using Flurbiprofen ophthalmic due to drainage of the medication into the throat.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing may occur. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention.

It’s essential to report any side effects or adverse reactions to your healthcare provider, especially if they persist or worsen over time. Additionally, if you experience severe or concerning side effects, seek medical attention promptly. Your healthcare provider can provide guidance on managing side effects and may adjust your treatment regimen if necessary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal instructions for Flurbiprofen Ophthalmic typically include:

• Storage: Store Flurbiprofen Ophthalmic at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Do not freeze the medication.
• Disposal: Dispose of Flurbiprofen Ophthalmic properly according to local regulations or as instructed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Proper disposal helps prevent harm to the environment and reduces the risk of accidental ingestion by pets or children.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose of Flurbiprofen Ophthalmic:

• Contact Emergency Services: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, severe eye irritation, or loss of consciousness, seek immediate medical attention or contact emergency services.
• Poison Control Center: You can also contact your local poison control center or emergency room for guidance on managing an overdose of Flurbiprofen Ophthalmic.

What other information should I know?

• Avoid Contamination: Do not touch the tip of the dropper to any surface, including your eye, to prevent contamination. Contaminated drops may lead to eye infections.
• Follow Instructions: Use Flurbiprofen Ophthalmic exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or duration of treatment unless instructed to do so.
• Regular Eye Exams: Even if you are using Flurbiprofen Ophthalmic to treat a specific condition, it’s essential to continue with regular eye exams as recommended by your eye care professional.
• Keep Appointments: Attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care, including eye specialists, about all medications you are using, including Flurbiprofen Ophthalmic, to avoid potential interactions or complications.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about the proper use, storage, and disposal of Flurbiprofen Ophthalmic, you can help ensure safe and effective treatment for your eye condition.