Why is this medication prescribed?

FML-S is a prescription medication used to treat certain eye conditions, particularly inflammation and swelling of the eye. It contains the active ingredient fluorometholone, which is a corticosteroid. Corticosteroids work by reducing inflammation, itching, redness, and swelling in the eye.

FML-S is commonly prescribed for conditions such as:

• Allergic conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the conjunctiva (the membrane that lines the eyelids and covers the white part of the eye) due to allergies.
• Keratitis: Inflammation of the cornea, often caused by infection or injury.
• Iritis: Inflammation of the iris, the colored part of the eye.
• Uveitis: Inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye.

It’s important to note that FML-S should only be used as prescribed by a healthcare professional. Misuse or overuse of corticosteroid eye drops can lead to complications such as increased intraocular pressure (which may result in glaucoma), cataracts, or fungal or bacterial eye infections.

How should this medicine be used?

FML-S (fluorometholone ophthalmic suspension) is an ophthalmic medication typically used to treat inflammation and swelling of the eye. Here’s how FML-S is commonly used:

• Wash Your Hands: Before applying FML-S, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent any contamination.
• Prepare the Eye Drops: Shake the FML-S bottle well before use. This ensures that the medication is properly mixed. If it’s the first time you’re using the bottle, or if you haven’t used it for a while, you may need to prime the pump by pressing the bottle tip down several times until a drop appears.
• Administer the Eye Drops: Tilt your head back slightly and look up. Gently pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
• Apply the Drops: Hold the bottle between your thumb and index finger with the tip pointing downwards. With your other hand, use your index finger to gently pull down your lower eyelid to form a small pocket. Be careful not to touch the tip of the bottle to your eye or any other surface to avoid contamination.
• Release the Drops: Squeeze the bottle gently to release the prescribed number of drops into the pocket formed by the lower eyelid. Try to avoid blinking or touching your eye with the dropper tip.
• Close Your Eye: After applying the drops, close your eye gently for a few seconds to allow the medication to spread evenly over the surface of the eye.
• Repeat if Necessary: If you’ve been instructed to use FML-S drops in both eyes, repeat the process for the other eye using a separate bottle if needed.
• Wipe Away Excess: If any excess medication spills onto your skin, gently wipe it away with a clean tissue.
• Wash Your Hands: After using FML-S, wash your hands again to remove any residual medication.
• Wait Between Eye Medications: If you’re using other eye medications along with FML-S, wait at least 5-10 minutes between applying each medication to prevent interactions and ensure proper absorption.
• Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions: It’s essential to follow your doctor’s prescribed dosage and treatment schedule for FML-S. Do not stop using the medication without consulting your healthcare provider, even if your symptoms improve.
• Store Properly: Keep FML-S tightly closed when not in use and store it at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

If you experience any discomfort, irritation, or side effects while using FML-S, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

FML-S (fluorometholone ophthalmic suspension) is primarily prescribed for the treatment of inflammation and swelling of the eye, but it may have other off-label uses as determined by healthcare professionals. Some off-label uses of FML-S may include treating certain types of eye allergies, ocular surface diseases, and post-operative inflammation.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to follow when using FML-S include:

• Consultation with a Healthcare Professional: Always use FML-S under the guidance and prescription of a qualified healthcare professional, typically an ophthalmologist. They can determine the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment based on your specific condition.
• Follow Dosage Instructions: Use FML-S exactly as prescribed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
• Avoid Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using FML-S. Wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them after applying the medication, as it may contain preservatives that can be absorbed by soft contact lenses.
• Monitor for Side Effects: Corticosteroids like FML-S can have side effects, including increased intraocular pressure, cataract formation, and delayed wound healing. If you experience any discomfort or notice changes in your vision while using FML-S, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using FML-S with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
• Avoid Abrupt Discontinuation: Do not stop using FML-S suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to rebound inflammation or other complications.
• Storage: Store FML-S at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Like all medications, FML-S should be kept out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and advice regarding the use of FML-S or any other medication. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to consult your healthcare provider.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions for FML-S, there are typically none. Corticosteroid eye drops like FML-S are administered directly into the eye and are not absorbed systemically in significant amounts to necessitate dietary restrictions.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of FML-S, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

FML-S (fluorometholone ophthalmic suspension) can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of FML-S may include:

• Temporary blurred vision after application
• Mild stinging or burning sensation in the eyes
• Eye irritation or discomfort
• Sensation of something in the eye
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Watery eyes
• Headache
• Dry eyes

These side effects are typically mild and temporary, resolving on their own as your eyes adjust to the medication. However, if any of these side effects persist or worsen, or if you experience more severe side effects, such as severe eye pain, changes in vision, or signs of an allergic reaction (e.g., rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat), it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly.

Additionally, long-term or frequent use of corticosteroid eye drops like FML-S can increase the risk of certain side effects, including:

• Increased intraocular pressure: Prolonged use of corticosteroid eye drops can lead to increased pressure within the eye, which may contribute to the development or worsening of conditions such as glaucoma.
• Cataract formation: Corticosteroids have been associated with the development of cataracts, particularly with long-term use.
• Fungal or bacterial eye infections: Prolonged use of corticosteroid eye drops can increase the risk of developing infections in the eye.

It’s important to use FML-S exactly as prescribed by your doctor and to attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor for any potential side effects or complications. If you have concerns about the side effects of FML-S or if you experience any unusual symptoms while using the medication, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

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

Storage and disposal of FML-S:

• Storage:
  • Store FML-S at room temperature between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use to prevent contamination and evaporation.
  • Avoid exposing FML-S to excessive heat, moisture, or direct sunlight.
  • Keep FML-S out of the reach of children and pets.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of FML-S according to the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
  • Do not flush FML-S down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so.
  • If you are unsure about how to dispose of FML-S properly, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for guidance.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of accidental ingestion or overdose of FML-S, contact your local poison control center (in the United States, call 1-800-222-1222) or seek emergency medical attention immediately.
• If FML-S is ingested, it may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, dizziness, and blurred vision. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by medical personnel.

What other information should I know?

• Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and eye drops you are using before starting FML-S, as well as any medical conditions you have.
• Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding the dosage and frequency of FML-S.
• Do not share FML-S with others, even if they have similar symptoms, as it may not be suitable for their condition.
• Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and assess the effectiveness of treatment.
• If you experience any side effects or adverse reactions while using FML-S, contact your doctor for guidance.
• Do not stop using FML-S abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider, as it may lead to a worsening of your condition.
• If you have any questions or concerns about FML-S or its use, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for assistance.

By following these guidelines, you can safely store, dispose of, and handle FML-S, as well as know what to do in case of emergency or overdose.