Tuesday 20 October 2009

Ocufen


Generic Name: flurbiprofen ophthalmic (FLUR bi PROE fen)

Brand Names: Ocufen


What is Ocufen (flurbiprofen ophthalmic)?

Flurbiprofen is in a group of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Flurbiprofen works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body.


Flurbiprofen ophthalmic (for the eye) is used to prevent your pupil from constricting, or narrowing, during eye surgery.

Flurbiprofen ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.


What is the most important information I should know about Ocufen (flurbiprofen ophthalmic)?


You should not use this medication if you are allergic to flurbiprofen.

Before you receive flurbiprofen ophthalmic, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any medications, or if you have a bleeding or blood-clotting disorder or take a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin).


Do not wear any contact lens that has not been approved by your doctor.

Do not use other eye medications during treatment with flurbiprofen ophthalmic unless your doctor tells you to.


What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before I receive Ocufen (flurbiprofen ophthalmic)?


You should not use this medication if you are allergic to flurbiprofen.

To make sure you can safely use flurbiprofen ophthalmic, tell your doctor if you have a bleeding or blood-clotting disorder.


FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether flurbiprofen ophthalmic will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication. It is not known whether flurbiprofen ophthalmic passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use Ocufen (flurbiprofen ophthalmic)?


Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.


Flurbiprofen ophthalmic is usually given every 30 minutes beginning 2 hours before your surgery. If you receive this medication at the surgery center, the eye drops will be given by a healthcare professional.


If you have been given the medication to start using your drops at home on the day of your surgery, follow the instructions below.


Wash your hands before using the eye drops.

To apply the eye drops:



  • Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the tip down. Look up and away from the dropper as you squeeze out a drop, then close your eye.




  • Gently press your finger to the inside corner of the eye (near your nose) for about 1 minute to keep the liquid from draining into your tear duct.




  • Use the eye drops only in the eye you are having surgery on.




  • Do not allow the dropper tip to touch any surface, including the eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.



If you use this medication at home, try not to miss any doses.


If you store the drops at home, keep them at room temperature away from heat and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

What happens if I miss a dose?


Call your doctor if you miss a dose of this medication. The timing of your doses in relation to your surgery is very important for the medication to be effective.


What happens if I overdose?


Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid after I receive Ocufen (flurbiprofen ophthalmic)?


Do not wear any contact lens that has not been approved by your doctor.

Do not use other eye medications during treatment with flurbiprofen ophthalmic unless your doctor tells you to.


Ocufen (flurbiprofen ophthalmic) side effects


Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

  • eye pain or redness;




  • vision changes; or




  • severe burning, stinging, or itching of your eyes.



Less serious side effects may include mild burning, stinging, or itching of your eyes.


This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


What other drugs will affect Ocufen (flurbiprofen ophthalmic)?


Tell your doctor about all other medications you use, especially a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin).


This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with flurbiprofen ophthalmic. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.



More Ocufen resources


  • Ocufen Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Ocufen Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Ocufen Drug Interactions
  • Ocufen Support Group
  • 0 Reviews for Ocufen - Add your own review/rating


  • Ocufen Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Ocufen eent Monograph (AHFS DI)

  • Ocufen Drops MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)



Compare Ocufen with other medications


  • Inhibition of Intraoperative Miosis
  • Postoperative Ocular Inflammation


Where can I get more information?


  • Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about flurbiprofen ophthalmic.

See also: Ocufen side effects (in more detail)


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