Fluorometholone eye ointment

July 17, 2018

Fluorometholone eye ointment

What is this medicine?

FLUOROMETHOLONE (flure oh METH oh lone) is a corticosteroid. It is used to treat swelling, redness, itching, and allergic reactions in the eye.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the tube to your eye, fingertips, or other surface. Squeeze the end of the tube and apply a thin layer of the ointment to the inside of the lower eyelid. Close the eye gently to spread the ointment. Your vision may blur for a few minutes. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not use more often than directed. Do not stop using except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. While this medicine may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions, like eyelid swelling, severe itching or redness

  • eye pain, decreased or blurred vision that does not go away

  • infection

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • blurred vision for a few moments after application

  • change in taste

  • temporary watering of eyes

  • temporary redness or stinging for a few moments after application

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without asking your doctor or health care professional.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Avoid temperatures above 40 degrees C (104 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They should know if you have any of these conditions:

  • any active infection

  • cataracts or glaucoma

  • contact lens wearer

  • eye surgery

  • an unusual allergic reaction to fluorometholone, other corticosteroids, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Check with your doctor or health care professional if your condition does not start to get better after 2 days, or if it gets worse. Check with your health care provider before using this medicine for any future eye problems. If you get any sign of an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and call your doctor or health care professional for advice.

Updated:  

July 17, 2018