Fluorometholone Suspension – Ophthalmic, FML, FML Forte
Medication Uses: This is used to treat certain eye conditions caused by inflammation or injury. Fluorometholone relieves symptoms such as swelling, redness, and itching. It belongs to a class of drugs called corticosteroids.
How to Use: Do not wear contact lenses while using this medicine. Sterilize contact lenses according to the manufacturer’s directions and check with your doctor before using them again. If your doctor approves the wearing of contact lenses during treatment, remove the lenses before using the eye drops. To apply eye drops, wash your hands, shake the bottle well, and avoid touching the dropper tip or letting it touch your eye or any other surface. Tilt your head back, pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch, hold the dropper directly over your eye, and place 1 drop into the pouch. Close your eyes for 1 to 2 minutes and apply gentle pressure at the corner of your eye to prevent the medication from draining out. Repeat these steps for your other eye if directed and if your dose is for more than 1 drop. Apply as often as directed by your doctor. Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after each use. If you are using other eye medication, wait at least 5 to 10 minutes before applying them. Use eye drops before eye ointments. Use this medication regularly at the same time(s) each day. The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not use this medication more often or for longer than prescribed. Continue to use this medication for the full prescribed time. Do not stop using it without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may worsen if the drug is suddenly stopped. Do not use this product if it becomes contaminated. Contact your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve after 2 days or if it worsens.
Side Effects: Stinging/burning of the eyes and temporary blurred vision may occur when you apply this medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Serious side effects may occur with prolonged use.
Precautions: Before using fluorometholone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: eye infections, recent eye surgery, cataracts, glaucoma, severe nearsightedness, and diabetes. After applying the drug, your vision may temporarily become blurred. Do not drive or use machinery until your vision clears. Before having surgery, inform your doctor or dentist about all the products you use. Ask your doctor if you should continue to use the current bottle if you develop a new eye infection or injury or require eye surgery. During pregnancy, use this medication only when clearly needed. It is not known if the medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use before starting treatment with this product. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any other medicines you are using without your doctor’s approval. Keep a list of all the products you use and share it with your doctor and pharmacist to reduce your risk for serious medication problems.
Overdose: If an overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Notes: Do not share this medication with others. This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another eye condition unless told to do so. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects.
Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Storage: Follow the storage instructions provided with your brand of medication. Do not freeze or store in the bathroom. Keep the bottle upright and tightly closed when not in use. Keep all medicines away from children and pets. Properly discard this product when expired or no longer needed.