Fluorometholone: What It Is and Why Doctors Use It

If you’ve ever been told to put eye drops after an eye surgery or for an inflamed eye, the name fluorometholone might have popped up. It’s a steroid eye drop that reduces swelling, redness, and pain. Think of it as a short‑term “firefighter” for inflammation inside the eye, keeping the tissue calm while it heals.

Unlike oral steroids that affect your whole body, fluorometholone works locally, so you get strong anti‑inflammatory power without the big systemic side effects. That’s why eye doctors often choose it for post‑surgical care, allergic eye reactions, and certain uveitis cases.

How to Use Fluorometholone Safely

First, always follow the prescription exactly. Most bottles come with a dropper that delivers one drop per eye. Typically, the schedule looks like this:

• Day 1‑3: One drop in the affected eye four times a day.
• Day 4‑7: Reduce to three times a day.
• After week 1: Often taper down to once or twice daily, depending on your doctor’s advice.

Never double up just because your eye feels itchy or gritty. Over‑using a steroid can cause pressure buildup inside the eye (glaucoma) or cataract formation over time.

When you’re putting the drops in, wash your hands, tilt your head back, pull down the lower eyelid, and squeeze a single drop. Close your eye gently for about 30 seconds—don’t blink hard or rub.

Common Side Effects and When to Call the Doctor

Most people tolerate fluorometholone well, but a few reactions happen:

• Temporary stinging or burning right after the drop.
• Blurred vision for a few minutes.
• Increased eye pressure (often silent – you need a check‑up to know).
• Rarely, infection if the dropper tip touches the eye.

If you notice persistent pain, flashing lights, sudden vision loss, or a yellowish discharge, stop the drops and contact your eye doctor ASAP. Those could be signs of a serious problem that need immediate attention.

People with a history of glaucoma, cataracts, or viral eye infections should tell their doctor before starting fluorometholone. The doctor may pick a lower‑strength steroid or a non‑steroid alternative.

Another practical tip: keep the bottle in a cool, dry place and check the expiration date. Sterile drops can lose effectiveness after a few weeks of opening, so discard them if they’re past the recommended use period.

Overall, fluorometholone is a handy tool for short‑term eye inflammation when used correctly. Stick to the prescribed schedule, watch for warning signs, and keep regular follow‑ups with your eye care professional. By doing that, you’ll get the anti‑inflammatory benefit without compromising your long‑term eye health.