FML (Fluorometholone)

What is FML?

FML (fluorometholone ophthalmic) is an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid meant for ophthalmic use.

What is FML used for?

FML is used in the treatment of inflammatory symptoms (swelling, itching, and redness) of the eye caused by injury, infection, surgery or other conditions.

How does FML work?

FML is a corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory effects. It inhibits the release of chemicals which cause inflammation and thus relieves inflammatory symptoms.

How to use FML

FML should be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Using for longer periods or in larger amounts than prescribed is not advisable. The dose depends on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Before applying the eye drops wash your hands properly and remove your contact lenses, if any.

To use the medication, you should tilt your head back, pull down your lower lid, look away from the dropper and put 1 drop into the eye. Close your eyes and gently press the inner corner of the eye for 2-3 minutes to prevent the drop from going into the tear duct. Maintain a gap of 5 minutes between subsequent drops.

Care should be taken that the dropper does not come in contact with your eyes, hands or any other body surface in order to prevent contamination of the dropper.

FML may be absorbed by soft contact lenses. Hence wear your lenses at least 15 minutes after using the medicine.

FML should be applied at evenly spaced intervals to get the best results.

It may take up to 2 weeks for your condition to improve. Do not increase the dose during this period without consultation with your doctor. However, if your condition does not improve even after 6 weeks or if it worsens contact you doctor immediately.

Do not stop using FML suddenly as doing so may cause withdrawal symptoms. The dose needs to be gradually decreased as per directions from doctor.

FML warnings and precautions

FML is not administered to patients who are allergic to fluorometholone. Patients who have a fungal eye infection, tuberculosis, a viral eye infection such as ocular herpes, chicken pox or any other untreated infection are also advised against using this medication.

To detect harmful effects of the medication at the earliest go for regular eye check-ups.

Do not use the eye drop if you find discoloration of the liquid or particles inside it.

Pregnant and lactating mothers should discuss the possible risks and benefits of using FML with their doctor.

What do I do if I have missed a FML dose?

If you have missed a FML dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the routine. 

What do I do if I have taken a FML overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of FML, consult your doctor immediately.

FML interactions

Oral steroid drugs such as hydrocortisone, prednisone, methylprednisolone are expected to interact with FML.

Other drugs can also interact with this medication. Hence, it is important to tell your doctor about all the prescription, non-prescription, herbal drugs and vitamin-mineral supplements that you are taking.

Do not start using any new eye medication without consulting your doctor first.

FML side effects

Side effects from FML include allergic reactions such as hives, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat or breathing difficulty. Seek emergency medical attention on appearance of such symptoms. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice sudden vision changes, pain behind eyes, sudden eye irritation, blurred vision, tunnel vision, seeing halos around lights, severe headache, or signs of new eye infection (draining, swelling or crusting of eyes).

Burning or stinging sensation in the eye, irritation, itching, and increased sensitivity to light are some common and less serious side effects of FML.