Pred Forte (prednisolone acetate ophthalmic suspension) 1% is a prescription corticosteroid specifically formulated for ophthalmic use. It is indicated for the treatment of steroid-responsive inflammatory conditions of the palpebral and bulbar conjunctiva, cornea, and anterior segment of the globe. This suspension delivers a potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effect directly to ocular tissues, making it a first-line therapeutic option for managing acute and chronic inflammatory eye disorders. Its micronized formulation ensures optimal drug delivery and bioavailability at the site of inflammation.

Features

• Contains 1% prednisolone acetate, a potent corticosteroid
• Micronized suspension for enhanced corneal penetration and tissue bioavailability
• Preservative-containing formulation (benzalkonium chloride 0.01%)
• White, uniform suspension that resists settling
• Available in 5mL, 10mL, and 15mL sterile dropper bottles
• pH-adjusted to approximately 5.0 to minimize irritation
• Osmolality approximately 260 mOsm/kg

Benefits

• Rapid reduction of ocular inflammation, pain, photophobia, and discomfort
• Effective suppression of inflammatory mediators and cellular infiltration
• Prevents tissue damage and scarring from uncontrolled inflammatory responses
• Facilitates faster visual recovery and return to normal activities
• Suitable for both acute flare-ups and chronic inflammatory management
• Trusted formulation with extensive clinical history and physician confidence

Common use

Pred Forte is commonly prescribed for inflammatory conditions including anterior uveitis (iritis, iridocyclitis), allergic conjunctivitis, vernal keratoconjunctivitis, episcleritis, scleritis, and inflammatory complications following ocular surgery or trauma. It is particularly effective in managing conditions where rapid control of inflammation is critical to prevent vision-threatening complications such as synechiae formation, cataract development, or glaucoma. Ophthalmologists frequently use Pred Forte as first-line therapy for moderate to severe ocular inflammation requiring potent steroid intervention.

Dosage and direction

Shake the bottle well before each use. The dosage of Pred Forte must be individualized based on the severity of the inflammatory condition. For severe inflammation: Instill 1-2 drops into the conjunctival sac every hour during daytime and every 2 hours during nighttime until improvement occurs. For moderate inflammation: 1-2 drops 4-6 times daily. For mild inflammation: 1 drop 2-4 times daily. Frequency should be gradually reduced as inflammation subsides. Treatment should not be discontinued abruptly but tapered under medical supervision. Patients should be instructed to avoid touching the dropper tip to any surface to prevent contamination.

Precautions

Use under strict medical supervision. Monitor intraocular pressure every 2-4 weeks during treatment, especially in patients with known glaucoma risk factors. Extended use may cause posterior subcapsular cataracts. Corneal perforation may occur in patients with thinning corneal tissue. Use with caution in patients with herpes simplex keratitis (may exacerbate infection). Fungal infections of the cornea may develop with prolonged steroid use. Patients should not wear contact lenses during treatment. Systemic absorption may occur with prolonged use, particularly in children, potentially suppressing the HPA axis.

Contraindications

Pred Forte is contraindicated in most viral diseases of the cornea and conjunctiva including epithelial herpes simplex keratitis (dendritic keratitis), vaccinia, and varicella. Contraindicated in mycobacterial and fungal infections of the eye. Hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation. Not recommended for purulent untreated bacterial infections without concomitant antimicrobial therapy. Avoid use in patients with active ocular tuberculosis.

Possible side effect

Common: transient burning or stinging upon instillation, blurred vision, mild discomfort. Less common: increased intraocular pressure (steroid-response glaucoma), posterior subcapsular cataract formation with prolonged use, delayed wound healing, ptosis, mydriasis. Rare: systemic effects including adrenal suppression, hyperglycemia, especially with prolonged use or in pediatric patients. Allergic reactions including itching, redness, or swelling of eyelids. Secondary ocular infections due to immunosuppression. Corneal thinning or perforation in susceptible patients.

Drug interaction

No formal drug interaction studies have been conducted. However, concomitant use with other ocular medications should be separated by at least 5-10 minutes to prevent dilution and ensure proper absorption. Caution when using with other corticosteroids (systemic or topical) due to additive effects. May interact with medications that affect intraocular pressure. Patients using diabetes medications may require adjustment due to potential hyperglycemic effects. Not recommended with live virus vaccines due to immunosuppressive effects.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, instill it as soon as remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Maintain as consistent a dosing schedule as possible. If multiple doses are missed, contact the prescribing physician for guidance on resuming therapy, as dose adjustment or retitration may be necessary.

Overdose

Acute overdose by ocular instillation is unlikely due to limited systemic absorption. However, excessive application may produce systemic corticosteroid effects including hyperglycemia, fluid retention, hypertension, and adrenal suppression. In case of accidental ingestion, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, and electrolyte imbalance. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Monitor vital signs and electrolyte balance if significant systemic absorption is suspected.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature 15°-30°C (59°-86°F). Protect from freezing and excessive heat. Keep bottle tightly closed when not in use. Do not use if the suspension changes color or becomes cloudy. Discard any unused medication 28 days after opening the bottle, even if medication remains. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not transfer to any other container.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Pred Forte is a prescription medication that should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. The prescribing physician will determine the appropriate dosage and duration based on individual patient factors. Patients should disclose their complete medical history and current medications to their healthcare provider. Never share prescription medications with others. Report any adverse effects to your physician immediately.

Reviews

Ophthalmologists consistently report Pred Forte as a highly effective first-line treatment for sight-threatening ocular inflammation. Clinical studies demonstrate significant improvement in inflammatory signs and symptoms within 24-48 hours of initiation. Patients appreciate the rapid relief from pain and photophobia, though some note initial stinging upon instillation. The micronized formulation receives particular praise for its reliability and consistent dosing. Many specialists consider it the gold standard for potent topical ocular steroids, with decades of clinical evidence supporting its efficacy and safety profile when used appropriately under medical supervision.