FML® / FML Forte®
fluorometholone ophthalmic suspension 0.1% / 0.25%
Clinical Snapshot
Fluorometholone is a moderate-potency topical corticosteroid with reduced IOP-elevating potential compared to prednisolone or dexamethasone. It is preferred for surface and conjunctival inflammation where deep penetration is not required and IOP risk is a concern.
Mechanism of Action
Fluorometholone inhibits the arachidonic acid cascade, reducing prostaglandin and cytokine production. Its relatively low lipophilicity limits anterior chamber penetration, which reduces IOP risk but also limits efficacy for intraocular inflammation.
Common Clinical Applications
- Conjunctival and ocular surface inflammation
- Allergic conjunctivitis with significant inflammatory component
- Episcleritis
- Mild anterior segment inflammation where deep penetration is not required
Typical Dosing Principles
One to two drops two to four times daily depending on severity. Shake well before use.
Dosing information is provided for educational purposes. Always consult current prescribing information for specific dosing protocols.
Important Precautions
- IOP elevation is possible, though less common than with prednisolone or dexamethasone.
- Not appropriate for anterior uveitis — insufficient anterior chamber penetration.
- Contraindicated in viral, fungal, and mycobacterial infections.
Clinical Pearls
- Preferred over prednisolone when surface inflammation is the target and IOP risk is a concern.
- Insufficient anterior chamber penetration for uveitis management — do not substitute for prednisolone acetate in uveitis.
- FML Forte (0.25%) provides greater effect for more significant surface inflammation.
- A useful option for patients with a history of steroid-induced IOP elevation who require surface anti-inflammatory therapy.
Commonly Associated Disease States
Select any disease state to explore its full entry in the Disease State Library.
Dry Eye Disease
One of the most prevalent conditions in optometric practice; a leading cause of patient dissatisfaction and reduced quality of life, with significant implications for contact lens wear, surgical candidacy, and systemic disease management.
Episcleritis
Generally benign and self-limiting; distinguished from scleritis by the absence of deep boring pain and the blanching response to phenylephrine; systemic association is less common than in scleritis.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
This entry is an educational reference designed to support clinical reasoning and therapeutic awareness. It does not constitute medical advice, establish a standard of care, or replace individualized patient assessment. Clinicians should consult current prescribing information before initiating any therapy.