Generic name: bromfenac (ophthalmic) [ brom-fen-ak-off-thal-mik ]
Drug class: Ophthalmic anti-inflammatory agents
Dosage form: ophthalmic solution (0.07%; 0.075%; 0.09%)
Availability: Prescription only
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data available
Brand names: Bromday, Bromsite (ophthalmic), Xibrom, Prolensa (ophthalmic)
What is Bromfenac (ophthalmic)?
Bromfenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
Bromfenac ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used to treat swelling and pain caused by cataract surgery.
Bromfenac ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
How should I take Bromfenac (ophthalmic)
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medication for more than the number of days your doctor has recommended. Using an NSAID eye drop too long can increase your risk of serious side effects that may damage your vision.
Do not use bromfenac ophthalmic while wearing contact lenses. Bromfenac may contain a preservative that can discolor soft contact lenses. Wait at least 10 minutes after using bromfenac before putting in your contact lenses.
The Prolensa brand of bromfenac ophthalmic is usually given as 1 drop in each affected eye once daily for 14 days.
The Bromsite brand of bromfenac ophthalmic is usually given as 1 drop in each affected eye twice daily for 14 days.
Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed.
Wash your hands before using eye medication.
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 and squeeze a drop into this pocket. Close your eyes for 1 or 2 minutes.
Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.
Do not use the eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
Dosing information
Usual Adult Dose for Postoperative Ocular Inflammation:
0.07% and 0.09% Ophthalmic Solutions: 1 drop in the affected eye(s) once a day beginning 1 day prior to cataract surgery, continued on the day of surgery, and through the first 14 days of the postoperative period
0.075% Ophthalmic Solution: 1 drop in the affected eye(s) twice a day (morning and evening) beginning 1 day prior to surgery, continued on the day of surgery, and for 14 days postsurgery
Comments:
-This drug may be administered in conjunction with other topical ophthalmic drugs such as alpha-agonists, beta-blockers, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, cycloplegics, and mydriatics.
-If more than one topical ophthalmic drug is being used, each one should be administered at least 5 minutes apart.
Uses: Treatment of postoperative inflammation and prevention or reduction of ocular pain in patients who have undergone cataract surgery
Before Taking
You should not use bromfenac ophthalmic if you are allergic to it.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
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asthma or sulfite allergy;
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diabetes;
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rheumatoid arthritis;
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dry eye syndrome;
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an allergy to aspirin or other NSAIDs;
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a bleeding or blood-clotting disorder; or
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more than one eye surgery in a short period of time.
If you are pregnant, you should not use bromfenac unless your doctor tells you to. Using an NSAID during the last 20 weeks of pregnancy can cause serious heart or kidney problems in the unborn baby and possible complications with your pregnancy.
Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
Call your doctor for instructions if you miss your first dose, which should be given 1 day before surgery.
What happens if I overdose?
An overdose of bromfenac ophthalmic is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.
What should I avoid while using Bromfenac (ophthalmic)?
bromfenac may cause blurred vision and may impair your reactions. Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you.
Do not use other eye medications unless your doctor tells you to.
Bromfenac (ophthalmic) side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
bromfenac may cause serious side effects. Stop using bromfenac and call your doctor at once if you have:
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any change in your vision;
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slow healing after your eye surgery;
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eye redness or bleeding;
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eye pain or swelling; or
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severe eye discomfort, increased tears, crusting or drainage.
Common side effects of bromfenac may include:
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increased sensitivity of your eyes to light;
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mild eye irritation, or feeling like something is in your eye;
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headache; or
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seeing flashes of light or "floaters" in your vision.
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.
See more: Bromfenac (ophthalmic) Side EffectsWhat other drugs will affect Bromfenac (ophthalmic)?
Medicine used in the eyes is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.