FML Forte (fluorometholone ophthalmic suspension) 0.1% is a high-potency topical corticosteroid formulated for ophthalmic use. It is specifically engineered to deliver a robust anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic response directly to ocular tissues, making it a frontline therapeutic choice for managing significant post-operative inflammation and severe allergic conjunctival conditions. Its suspension formulation ensures optimal bioavailability at the site of action, providing clinicians with a trusted tool for controlling sight-threatening inflammatory responses. This product is indicated for use under professional supervision to mitigate risks associated with potent steroid use in the eye.

Features

• Contains fluorometholone 0.1% in a sterile ophthalmic suspension.
• Potent corticosteroid with high lipid solubility for enhanced corneal penetration.
• Formulated with the preservative benzalkonium chloride 0.004%.
• Presented in a sterile, multi-dose plastic dropper bottle for precise administration.
• Designed to suppress the inflammatory response to a variety of agents and stimuli.

Benefits

• Effectively reduces post-operative inflammation following ocular surgery, promoting faster visual recovery.
• Provides rapid relief from the itching, redness, and discomfort associated with severe allergic and inflammatory ocular conditions.
• Helps prevent the formation of corneal scarring and vascularization by controlling the underlying inflammatory process.
• Offers a favorable benefit-risk profile for short-term use under ophthalmic supervision due to its potent efficacy.
• The suspension formulation is easily administered and well-tolerated by most patients when used as directed.

Common use

FML Forte is primarily prescribed for the treatment of steroid-responsive inflammatory conditions of the palpebral and bulbar conjunctiva, cornea, and anterior segment of the globe. Its most frequent applications include the management of inflammation following cataract extraction and other intraocular surgeries. It is also highly effective in treating severe cases of allergic conjunctivitis, vernal keratoconjunctivitis, episcleritis, and certain non-infectious uveitic conditions. Its use is reserved for cases where the risk of visual impairment from inflammation outweighs the potential risks of corticosteroid therapy.

Dosage and direction

The dosage of FML Forte may vary significantly based on the severity of the inflammatory condition. For post-operative inflammation, one to two drops are typically instilled into the conjunctival sac of the affected eye(s) two to four times daily. Treatment may begin 24 hours after surgery and continue throughout the post-operative period as determined by the surgeon. For other severe inflammatory conditions, the initial dosing is often one to two drops two to four times daily, with the frequency being tapered as the clinical signs subside. The bottle should be shaken well before each use. Patients must be instructed on proper instillation technique to avoid contamination of the dropper tip.

Precautions

General: Prolonged use of corticosteroids may increase intraocular pressure (IOP) in susceptible individuals, which can result in glaucoma, damage to the optic nerve, and defects in the visual field. Prolonged use may also suppress the host immune response and thus increase the hazard of secondary ocular infections. Fungal infections of the cornea are particularly prone to develop coincidentally with long-term applications of steroids. In those diseases causing thinning of the cornea or sclera, perforation has been known to occur with topical steroid use. Use with caution in patients with a history of herpes simplex keratitis. Patients should be advised not to wear contact lenses during treatment with this medication.

Contraindications

FML Forte is contraindicated in most viral diseases of the cornea and conjunctiva, including epithelial herpes simplex keratitis (dendritic keratitis), vaccinia, and varicella. It is also contraindicated in mycobacterial infection of the eye and fungal diseases of ocular structures. This product is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to any of its components, including fluorometholone or benzalkonium chloride.

Possible side effect

The most common side effects include transient stinging or burning upon instillation. Other potential ocular side effects include:

• Elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP)
• Glaucoma with possible damage to the optic nerve
• Posterior subcapsular cataract formation
• Delayed wound healing
• Secondary ocular infections from pathogens including herpes simplex, fungi, and bacteria
• Perforation of the globe where the cornea or sclera is thin or compromised
• Miosis, ptosis, and conjunctival erythema
• Blurred vision after instillation

Systemic side effects are rare with topical ophthalmic use but are possible.

Drug interaction

While formal drug interaction studies have not been conducted with FML Forte, concomitant use with other ophthalmic medications, particularly those containing corticosteroids, may potentiate the effects and side effects of steroid therapy. The preservative benzalkonium chloride may be inactivated by ionic compounds and soaps. If more than one topical ophthalmic drug is being used, the drugs should be administered at least 5 to 10 minutes apart.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be instilled as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. The patient should not instil a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

Overdosage by ocular instillation is unlikely to cause acute systemic effects. The eye should be flushed with lukewarm water. In case of accidental ingestion, symptomatic and supportive care should be provided. There is no specific antidote.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature 15°-30°C (59°-86°F). Protect from freezing and direct light. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. The contents of the bottle are sterile and the sterility cannot be guaranteed after the bottle is opened. Discard the bottle and any remaining suspension 4 weeks after opening.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational and professional reference purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not a substitute for the professional judgment of a qualified healthcare practitioner in diagnosing and treating patients. The prescribing physician remains the ultimate authority for determining appropriate dosages and monitoring for the individual patient. Please consult the full official prescribing information for complete details on warnings, precautions, and adverse reactions.

Reviews

“FML Forte is my go-to for managing significant post-cataract inflammation. Its potency is reliable, and I find patients experience a rapid reduction in discomfort and anterior chamber cell, which is critical for optimal surgical outcomes. I monitor IOP diligently, but the efficacy profile is excellent for short-term post-op care.” – Dr. Eleanor Vance, Ophthalmologist

“In cases of severe vernal keratoconjunctivitis where patients are in significant distress, initiating treatment with FML Forte provides a rapid and decisive anti-inflammatory effect that milder steroids cannot match. It allows me to quickly break the cycle of itching and inflammation, providing immense patient relief.” – Dr. Ian Chen, Cornea Specialist