What should you know about fluorometholone for dry eyes?

Fluorometholone is a corticosteroid placed in the eye. It can calm swelling, irritation and redness when inflammation is contributing to discomfort. It does not replace lubricating drops when the main problem is reduced tear film, and it is not suitable for every red or painful eye. Steroid drops can raise pressure inside the eye and may make some infections harder to recognise or control, so use should follow a clinician’s instructions.

Use the prescribed number of drops for the prescribed duration, and wash your hands before applying them. Do not let the bottle tip touch your eye or lashes. If you use other eye drops, separate them by the interval advised by your clinician. Temporary blurred vision can occur after a drop; wait until vision is clear before driving. Contact the prescriber if irritation worsens or the medicine is difficult to use.

Seek urgent eye care for severe eye pain, a sudden change in vision, marked light sensitivity, injury, or rapidly increasing redness or swelling. Arrange prompt review if discharge develops, symptoms worsen while using the drops, or discomfort returns soon after treatment stops. [Itchy Eyes](/symptoms/itchy-eyes/) and [Red Eye](/symptoms/red-eye/) can have causes that need different treatment.

Ask whether inflammation is present, how long the drops should be used, whether your eye pressure needs checking, and which lubricating drops or contact-lens precautions are appropriate. A [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) can help arrange assessment when the cause of dryness is unclear.