Bromfenac
Postoperative Pain , Inflammation ... show more
.svg)
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Summary
Bromfenac is used to treat eye inflammation and pain, often after cataract surgery, which is a procedure to remove a cloudy lens from the eye. It helps reduce redness, swelling, and discomfort in the eye, promoting healing and comfort.
Bromfenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID, which works by blocking enzymes in the body that produce substances causing inflammation and pain. This action reduces inflammation and discomfort in the eye, aiding recovery after surgery.
Bromfenac is typically administered as an eye drop. The usual dose for adults is one drop in the affected eye(s) once or twice daily, depending on your doctor's instructions. It's important to follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs.
Common side effects of bromfenac include eye irritation, which may manifest as redness, itching, or discomfort. These effects are usually mild and temporary. If you notice new symptoms after starting bromfenac, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication.
Avoid using bromfenac if you're allergic to it or its ingredients. Serious allergic reactions, which cause rash, hives, or swelling that makes breathing difficult, require immediate medical help. Consult your doctor if you have a history of asthma or other allergic reactions to NSAIDs.
Indications and Purpose
How does bromfenac work?
Bromfenac is an NSAID, which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, that works by blocking enzymes in the body that produce substances causing inflammation and pain. Think of it like turning off a faucet to stop water flow. By inhibiting these enzymes, bromfenac reduces inflammation and discomfort in the eye. This makes it effective for treating post-surgical eye inflammation and pain, helping patients recover more comfortably.
Is bromfenac effective?
Bromfenac is effective for reducing inflammation and pain in the eye, often after cataract surgery. It works by blocking certain substances in the body that cause inflammation. Clinical studies show bromfenac significantly reduces eye inflammation and discomfort in patients after eye surgery. This makes it a valuable option for managing post-surgical eye conditions. Always follow your doctor's instructions for the best results.
What is bromfenac?
Bromfenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID, used as an eye drop to reduce inflammation and pain in the eye. It works by blocking certain substances in the body that cause inflammation. Bromfenac is primarily used after cataract surgery to relieve eye pain and swelling. It helps improve comfort and healing in the affected eye. Always follow your doctor's instructions when using bromfenac.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take bromfenac?
Bromfenac is usually used for short-term treatment of eye inflammation, often after surgery. The duration of use depends on your doctor's instructions and your specific condition. Typically, it's used for a few weeks. Always follow your doctor's guidance on how long to use bromfenac. If you have questions about the duration of your treatment, discuss them with your healthcare provider.
How do I dispose of bromfenac?
If you can, bring unused bromfenac to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so it doesn't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take bromfenac?
Bromfenac is typically taken as an eye drop. Follow your doctor's instructions on how to use it. Usually, you apply one drop to the affected eye(s) once or twice daily, depending on your doctor's advice. It's important not to touch the dropper tip to any surface, including your eye, to avoid contamination. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using the drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them. If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Never use two doses at once.
How long does it take for bromfenac to start working?
Bromfenac starts working quickly after application, with noticeable effects within a few hours. The full therapeutic effect, which includes reduced eye inflammation and pain, may take a few days. Individual factors, such as the severity of your condition and your overall health, can affect how quickly you notice improvements. Follow your doctor's instructions for the best results and contact them if you have concerns about the medication's effectiveness.
How should I store bromfenac?
Store bromfenac eye drops at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Don't store it in the bathroom, where humidity can affect the medication. If your drops came in packaging that isn't child-resistant, transfer them to a container that children can't easily open. Always store bromfenac out of children's reach to prevent accidental use. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.
What is the usual dose of bromfenac?
The usual dose of bromfenac for adults is one drop in the affected eye(s) once or twice daily, depending on your doctor's instructions. It's important to follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs. If you have any questions about your dosage or how to use the medication, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
Warnings and Precautions
Can bromfenac be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Bromfenac is not recommended while breastfeeding unless necessary. We don't have much information about whether this medication passes into human breast milk. If you're using bromfenac and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely. Your doctor can help determine the best approach for your situation.
Can bromfenac be taken safely while pregnant?
Bromfenac isn't recommended during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. Limited data is available on its safety in pregnant women. Animal studies suggest potential risks, but human data is lacking. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest way to manage your eye condition. Your doctor can help create a treatment plan that protects both you and your baby.
Can I take bromfenac with other prescription drugs?
Bromfenac, an eye drop, has minimal systemic absorption, so drug interactions are rare. However, using other NSAIDs, which are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or blood thinners might increase the risk of bleeding. Always inform your doctor about all medications you're taking to avoid potential interactions. If you have concerns about drug interactions with bromfenac, discuss them with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Does bromfenac have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions that can occur with medication use. With bromfenac, common adverse effects include eye irritation, which affects a small percentage of users. Serious adverse effects are rare but can include severe eye pain, vision changes, or allergic reactions. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms while using bromfenac, contact your doctor. They can help determine if the symptoms are related to the medication and recommend appropriate action.
Does bromfenac have any safety warnings?
Bromfenac has important safety warnings. It can cause eye irritation, which includes redness, itching, or discomfort. If you experience severe eye pain, vision changes, or signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash or swelling, seek medical help immediately. Avoid using bromfenac if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions and not use the medication for longer than prescribed. If you have any concerns about using bromfenac, discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Is bromfenac addictive?
Bromfenac is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop using it. Bromfenac works by reducing inflammation in the eye and doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to use more than prescribed. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that bromfenac doesn't carry this risk while managing your eye condition.
Is bromfenac safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals may be more sensitive to the effects of medications, including bromfenac. While bromfenac is generally safe for the elderly, they should use it with caution. The elderly may experience more pronounced side effects, such as eye irritation. It's important for elderly patients to follow their doctor's instructions and report any unusual symptoms. Regular check-ups can help ensure the medication is working safely and effectively.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking bromfenac?
There's no known interaction between bromfenac and alcohol. However, it's always a good idea to limit alcohol consumption while taking any medication. Alcohol can sometimes worsen side effects or interfere with your body's ability to heal. If you have concerns about alcohol use while taking bromfenac, discuss them with your doctor for personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking bromfenac?
You can exercise while using bromfenac. This medication is an eye drop and doesn't typically affect your ability to exercise. However, if you experience any dizziness or vision changes, which are rare, avoid strenuous activities until you feel better. If you have concerns about exercising while using bromfenac, discuss them with your doctor for personalized advice.
Is it safe to stop bromfenac?
It's generally safe to stop using bromfenac when your doctor advises. Bromfenac is often used for short-term relief of eye inflammation. Stopping it suddenly usually doesn't cause withdrawal symptoms. However, if you're using it for a specific condition, stopping too soon might lead to a return of symptoms. Always follow your doctor's instructions on how long to use bromfenac. If you have concerns about stopping the medication, discuss them with your healthcare provider.
What are the most common side effects of bromfenac?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. With bromfenac, common side effects include eye irritation, such as redness, itching, or discomfort. These effects are usually mild and temporary. If you notice new symptoms after starting bromfenac, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking bromfenac?
Don't use bromfenac if you're allergic to it or its ingredients. Serious allergic reactions, which cause rash, hives, or swelling that makes breathing difficult, require immediate medical help. Avoid using bromfenac if you have a history of asthma or other allergic reactions to NSAIDs, which are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Always consult your doctor about these concerns before using bromfenac.
