5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) Eye Injection: Uses, Brands & Dosage

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is an anti-scarring agent used in ophthalmology to prevent scar tissue formation after glaucoma filtering surgery.

Drug class	Anti-scarring Agent
Type	Single
Forms	Subconjunctival Injection
Common strength	50 mg/mL (5 mg dose)
Common Indian brands	5-FU injection (ophthalmic use)
Prescription status	Prescription (hospital use)

What 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is used for

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a vital medicine used in eye care, specifically to help maintain the success of certain eye surgeries. At Pristine Eye Hospitals, we use 5-FU primarily for:

Bleb needling: This procedure is performed when the drainage channel created during glaucoma surgery starts to close up. 5-FU helps reopen and maintain this channel.
Anti-scarring after glaucoma filtering surgery: Glaucoma filtering surgery creates a new pathway for fluid to drain from the eye, reducing eye pressure. Scar tissue can sometimes form and block this new pathway, leading to the surgery failing. 5-FU is used to prevent this scarring, helping the surgery remain effective for longer.

In essence, 5-FU plays a crucial role in ensuring the long-term success of glaucoma surgeries by preventing the body’s natural healing response from creating unwanted scar tissue that could hinder the drainage of fluid from the eye.

How it works

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) works by preventing the formation of scar tissue. After glaucoma filtering surgery, the body naturally tries to heal the surgical site, which can sometimes lead to the growth of scar tissue. This scar tissue can block the newly created drainage channel (called a ‘bleb’), causing the eye pressure to rise again and potentially leading to the failure of the surgery.

5-FU interferes with the growth of cells that form scar tissue. When injected near the surgical site, it helps to keep the drainage channel open and functioning effectively. By slowing down or preventing the formation of these scar-forming cells, 5-FU ensures that the fluid can continue to drain properly from your eye, thereby maintaining the reduced eye pressure achieved by the surgery. This mechanism is critical for the long-term success of glaucoma filtering procedures.

How it’s used

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is administered as a subconjunctival injection, meaning it is injected just under the conjunctiva (the clear membrane covering the white part of your eye). This procedure is always performed by a qualified ophthalmologist in a hospital or clinic setting at Pristine Eye Hospitals.

Here’s what you can expect regarding its use:

Administration: The medicine is given as an injection directly next to the ‘bleb’ – the small blister-like area created during glaucoma filtering surgery that acts as the drainage channel.
Dose: The strength of the injection is 50 mg/mL, and a typical dose administered is 5 mg. Your doctor will determine the exact dose and frequency based on your specific needs and the condition of your eye.
Frequency: The injection may be repeated as needed. Your ophthalmologist will carefully monitor your eye and decide if and when further injections are required to prevent or treat scar tissue formation.
Setting: This is not a medicine for self-administration. It is a prescription eye medicine that must only be used as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist and administered by specialists in a hospital or clinic setting.

Your doctor will explain the procedure in detail and address any concerns you may have before administering the injection. It’s important to follow all post-procedure instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome.

Always follow your ophthalmologist’s exact instructions.

Brands available in India

5-FU injection (ophthalmic use)

Brand availability and pricing vary; confirm with your pharmacist.

Good to know

Prescription eye medicine — use only as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist. This page is for general education and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or a prescription. Do not self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. This is given only by specialists in a hospital or clinic setting and is never for self-use.

Precautions & side effects

While 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a valuable medicine for preventing scarring after glaucoma surgery, it’s important to be aware of potential precautions and side effects. Your ophthalmologist at Pristine Eye Hospitals will discuss these with you before treatment.

Temporary Corneal Surface Toxicity: One of the known precautions with 5-FU is that it can cause temporary toxicity to the surface of the cornea (the clear front part of your eye). This might lead to symptoms such as temporary discomfort, redness, or blurred vision. These effects are usually temporary and your doctor will monitor you closely for them.
Prescription Medicine: 5-FU is a prescription eye medicine and must only be used as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist. It is given only by specialists in a hospital or clinic setting and is never for self-use.
Not for Self-Medication: Do not attempt to self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. This medicine requires careful administration and monitoring by an eye specialist.
General Education, Not a Substitute for Advice: This information is for general education and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or a prescription. Always consult your ophthalmologist for any concerns or questions about your treatment.

Your doctor will weigh the benefits of preventing scar tissue against any potential risks and will ensure that 5-FU is the right treatment for your specific condition. If you experience any unusual or severe symptoms after the injection, please contact Pristine Eye Hospitals immediately.

Understanding Glaucoma and the Need for Anti-Scarring Agents

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to irreversible vision loss if not managed properly. It often occurs when the pressure inside your eye (intraocular pressure) becomes too high. This increased pressure can damage the optic nerve, which transmits visual information from your eye to your brain. While there are various treatments for glaucoma, including eye drops and laser procedures, some patients may require glaucoma filtering surgery.

Glaucoma filtering surgery, such as a trabeculectomy, creates a new drainage pathway for the fluid inside your eye to exit, thereby lowering the intraocular pressure. A small blister-like area called a ‘bleb’ is formed on the white part of your eye, under the eyelid, where the fluid collects before being absorbed by the body. The success of this surgery depends on this bleb remaining open and functional. However, the body’s natural healing response can sometimes lead to the formation of scar tissue around the bleb, which can block the drainage pathway and cause the eye pressure to rise again. This is where anti-scarring agents like 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) become crucial. By preventing excessive scar tissue formation, 5-FU helps ensure the long-term success of your glaucoma surgery, preserving your vision.

General Eye Care and Hygiene for Eye Procedures

Maintaining good eye hygiene is paramount, especially when undergoing eye treatments or surgeries. While 5-FU is administered by a specialist, general eye care practices contribute significantly to your overall eye health and recovery. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your eyes or any eye area. Avoid rubbing your eyes vigorously, especially after any eye procedure or injection, as this can cause irritation or dislodge healing tissues. If you need to clean around your eyes, use a clean, soft cloth dampened with clean water. Avoid using harsh soaps or chemicals near your eyes. If you wear contact lenses, your doctor will advise you on when it is safe to resume wearing them after your 5-FU injection or surgery. It’s generally recommended to avoid wearing contact lenses immediately after any eye procedure to allow the eye to heal without additional irritation. Always follow your ophthalmologist’s specific instructions regarding post-procedure care, including any prescribed eye drops or ointments to prevent infection or reduce inflammation. Proper hygiene helps prevent infections and supports a smooth recovery process.

When to Seek Medical Help

Your health and vision are our top priority at Pristine Eye Hospitals. While 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) injections are generally safe when administered by a specialist, it’s important to be aware of signs that might require immediate medical attention. After receiving a 5-FU injection or any eye surgery, you should contact your ophthalmologist or visit Pristine Eye Hospitals immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

Sudden or severe eye pain: While some mild discomfort is normal, intense or worsening pain is a red flag.
Significant decrease in vision: Any sudden blurring, haziness, or loss of vision should be reported at once.
Increased redness or swelling: While some redness is expected, if it worsens significantly or is accompanied by swelling around the eye, it could indicate an infection or other complication.
Discharge from the eye: Yellow or green discharge, or excessive watery discharge, can be a sign of infection.
New floaters or flashes of light: These can sometimes indicate more serious underlying issues.
Headache accompanied by eye pain or vision changes: This combination of symptoms warrants immediate evaluation.

Remember, this page provides general information. Your ophthalmologist is your best resource for personalized advice and care. Do not hesitate to reach out to us at Pristine Eye Hospitals if you have any concerns or experience any unusual symptoms after your treatment. Early detection and intervention can prevent potential complications and ensure the best possible outcome for your vision.

Frequently asked questions

What is 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) used for in eye care?

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is used in eye care primarily as an anti-scarring agent after glaucoma filtering surgery and for bleb needling. It helps prevent scar tissue from blocking the surgical drainage channel, ensuring the long-term success of the surgery.

How does 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) work?

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) works by preventing the cells that form scar tissue from growing. After glaucoma surgery, scar tissue can block the new drainage channel (bleb). 5-FU helps keep this channel open, allowing fluid to drain properly and maintaining lower eye pressure.

What are the common Indian brands of 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) for ophthalmic use?

In India, 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) for ophthalmic use is typically available as '5-FU injection (ophthalmic use)'.

How is 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) administered?

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is administered as a subconjunctival injection, meaning it is injected just under the conjunctiva (the clear membrane covering the white part of your eye). It is always given by a qualified ophthalmologist in a hospital or clinic setting and is never for self-use.

Do I need a prescription for 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)?

Yes, 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a prescription eye medicine. It is only administered by specialists in a hospital or clinic setting and requires a prescription from a qualified ophthalmologist.

What precautions should I be aware of with 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)?

A key precaution with 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is that it can cause temporary corneal surface toxicity, which might lead to temporary discomfort, redness, or blurred vision. It is a prescription medicine for hospital use only and must be administered by a specialist. Do not self-medicate or reuse an old prescription.

References

Medically reviewed by Dr. C Jagadesh Reddy, Chief Surgeon: Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgery — last reviewed 2026-07-28.

This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. Always consult a qualified ophthalmologist before starting, changing or stopping any eye medicine.