FML Forte (fluorometholone ophthalmic suspension) 0.25% is a high-potency topical corticosteroid formulated for the short-term treatment of significant steroid-responsive inflammatory conditions of the palpebral and bulbar conjunctiva, cornea, and anterior segment of the globe. It is indicated when a robust anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effect is clinically warranted to rapidly control severe ocular inflammation and prevent potential vision-impairing complications. This suspension is engineered for enhanced penetration and prolonged corneal contact time, making it a cornerstone in the management of acute, severe inflammatory episodes where standard-potency steroids are insufficient.

Features

• High-potency fluorometholone concentration at 0.25%.
• Preservative-free formulation in single-use vials, minimizing risk of benzalkonium chloride-induced toxicity.
• Optimized suspension vehicle for improved bioavailability and prolonged ocular surface residence.
• Indicated for steroid-responsive inflammation of the conjunctiva, cornea, and anterior segment.
• Supplied in a sterile, isotonic ophthalmic suspension.

Benefits

• Delivers rapid and potent suppression of the inflammatory cascade, reducing pain, photophobia, and redness.
• Helps prevent tissue damage and scarring that can lead to permanent visual acuity loss.
• Facilitates a quicker return to normal ocular function and patient comfort.
• The preservative-free single-dose format maximizes safety for compromised corneas and reduces allergic potential.
• Provides a critical therapeutic option for managing severe postoperative inflammation.

Common use

FML Forte is primarily prescribed for short-duration treatment of severe inflammatory conditions where a potent corticosteroid effect is necessary. Common diagnoses include severe allergic conjunctivitis, significant episcleritis, scleritis (adjunctive therapy), severe blepharoconjunctivitis, and intense inflammatory responses following ocular surgery or chemical burns. It is also used in the management of certain forms of uveitis (iritis, iridocyclitis) affecting the anterior segment.

Dosage and direction

Instill 1 drop into the conjunctival sac of the affected eye(s) 2 to 4 times daily. The dosage may be adjusted based on the severity of the inflammatory response. During the initial 24 to 48 hours, dosing may be increased to every 2 hours, strictly under close clinical supervision. Shake the bottle well before each use. To apply: Tilt your head back, pull down the lower eyelid to create a pouch, place the drop into the pouch, and close your eye. Apply gentle pressure to the nasolacrimal duct (inner corner of the eye) for 1 to 2 minutes to minimize systemic absorption. Do not touch the dropper tip to any surface to avoid contamination.

Precautions

• Prolonged use may result in glaucoma, damage to the optic nerve, defects in visual acuity and fields of vision, or posterior subcapsular cataract formation.
• Intraocular pressure (IOP) should be monitored frequently, even in patients without a prior history of glaucoma.
• Use with extreme caution in patients with a history of herpes simplex keratitis. Corticosteroids may exacerbate the infection and potentiate corneal perforation.
• Fungal and viral infections of the cornea may be masked or enhanced by the application of steroids.
• Not intended for injection. Patients should be advised not to wear contact lenses during the course of therapy.

Contraindications

FML Forte is contraindicated in:

• Most viral diseases of the cornea and conjunctiva, including epithelial herpes simplex keratitis (dendritic keratitis), vaccinia, and varicella.
• Mycobacterial and fungal infections of the eye.
• Hypersensitivity to any component of this medication (fluorometholone or other ingredients).

Possible side effect

The following adverse reactions may occur:

• Common: Transient stinging or burning upon instillation; blurred vision immediately after application.
• Serious (require immediate medical attention): Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) with possible development of glaucoma; optic nerve damage; visual field defects; posterior subcapsular cataract formation; perforation of the globe; secondary ocular infections from pathogens including herpes simplex, fungi, and bacteria; delayed wound healing.

Drug interaction

• Concurrent therapy with systemic corticosteroids or other topical ophthalmic corticosteroids may potentiate the elevation of IOP.
• No formal drug interaction studies have been conducted. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are using.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, instill it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

Topical overdose is unlikely to cause life-threatening systemic effects. Ocular overdose may be flushed from the eye(s) with warm tap water. Symptoms of systemic absorption from extreme overuse could include manifestations of hypercortisolism (e.g., rounding of the face, central obesity). In case of suspected overdose, seek medical attention or contact a poison control center.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature 15°-30°C (59°-86°F). Protect from light and freezing. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Discard any unused suspension from a single-use vial immediately after administration. For multi-dose bottles, discard the bottle 4 weeks after opening.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.

Reviews

• “As a corneal specialist, FML Forte is my go-to for severe post-PRK inflammation. The potency is predictable, and the preservative-free option is invaluable for these sensitive corneas. It consistently brings down inflammation within 48 hours where other steroids fall short.” – Dr. E. Lawson, MD
• “Prescribed for a severe bout of allergic conjunctivitis that wasn’t responding to anything else. The burning sensation was intense for a few seconds, but the relief from the swelling and itching was noticeable by the next day. Followed the tapering instructions exactly as my doctor outlined.” – Patient M.T.
• “We use this frequently in our post-cataract surgery patients who present with significant anterior chamber reaction. Its efficacy is excellent, but we are always vigilant about IOP checks at every follow-up. It’s a powerful tool that demands respect.” – Dr. A. Sharma, Ophthalmologist
• “The cost is higher than other drops, but for the severity of my condition, it was necessary. My vision was blurry for about 10 minutes after each drop, so I had to plan when I used it. It worked very well for my uveitis flare-up.” – Patient J.K.