Fluorometholone
FML
What it isTopical glucocorticoid agonist; corticosteroid-responsive ocular inflammation.
Why this oneLimited corneal penetration tends to raise intraocular pressure less than prednisolone acetate but also limits potency.
What limits itProlonged use can still cause glaucoma and cataract; monitor pressure and reassess if deeper inflammation persists.
FDA-approved for
- corticosteroid-responsive ocular inflammation
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steroid-responsive ocular inflammation | Ophthalmic | 1 drop into conjunctival sac 2–4×/day | 1 drop 2–4×/day | 1 drop q4h during initial 24–48 h |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Instructions
- Shake well before use
- In chronic conditions, taper by gradually decreasing frequency; do not discontinue prematurely
Contraindications
- Most viral corneal/conjunctival diseases (epithelial herpes simplex keratitis/dendritic keratitis, vaccinia, varicella)
- Mycobacterial infection of the eye
- Fungal diseases of ocular structures
Cautions
- Elevated intraocular pressure / glaucoma, optic nerve damage
- Posterior subcapsular cataract formation
- Delayed wound healing; risk of globe perforation where cornea/sclera thinned
- Secondary ocular infection (bacterial, fungal, viral)
Adverse reactions
- Elevated IOP
- Posterior subcapsular cataract
- Delayed wound healing
- Transient burning/stinging
- Blurred vision
Pregnancy Embryocidal and teratogenic in rabbits at low multiples of the ocular dose; use only if potential benefit justifies risk.
Lactation Undefined
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Principal riskSteroid-induced glaucoma and cataract on prolonged use
Cost, est. cash$200–$1,000/month
Generic entryLong generic
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Legacy pregnancy categoryC
Defining liabilityLocal irritation, sensitization or administration-site injury; negligible systemic toxicity at usual use.
Mechanism of action: Fluorometholone ballicule
