5-Fluorouracil Injection is an anti-scarring medicine used in eye surgery to help prevent scar tissue from forming after glaucoma filtering surgery or bleb needling.
| Drug class | Antimetabolite |
|---|---|
| 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 Injection is used for
5-Fluorouracil Injection is a specialised medicine used in ophthalmology, primarily to assist in the success of certain eye surgeries. It is used to prevent the formation of excessive scar tissue that can sometimes interfere with the desired outcome of these procedures.
- Anti-scarring after glaucoma filtering surgery: Glaucoma filtering surgery (often called trabeculectomy) is a common procedure to lower eye pressure in people with glaucoma. During this surgery, a new drainage channel is created in the eye to allow fluid to flow out, forming a small blister-like area called a ‘bleb’ under the conjunctiva (the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye). Scar tissue can sometimes form around this bleb, causing the drainage channel to close and the surgery to fail. 5-Fluorouracil Injection helps to prevent this scarring, keeping the drainage channel open and effective.
- Anti-scarring after bleb needling: Sometimes, even after successful glaucoma filtering surgery, the bleb might start to scar or become less effective over time. A procedure called ‘bleb needling’ is performed to reopen or revise the bleb. 5-Fluorouracil Injection is used during or after bleb needling to prevent the scar tissue from reforming, thereby maintaining the bleb’s function and the eye’s pressure control.
In essence, this medicine acts as a crucial aid in maintaining the long-term success of glaucoma surgeries by preventing the body’s natural healing response from creating too much scar tissue that could block the newly created drainage pathways.
How it works
5-Fluorouracil is an ‘antimetabolite’ medicine. In simple terms, this means it interferes with the growth and multiplication of cells. After eye surgery, especially glaucoma filtering surgery, the body naturally tries to heal the surgical site. Sometimes, this healing process can lead to the overgrowth of cells that form scar tissue. This scar tissue can then block the new drainage channel created during surgery, causing the eye pressure to rise again.
When 5-Fluorouracil Injection is administered, it works by preventing these specific cells (fibroblasts) from multiplying excessively and forming scar tissue. By inhibiting this scarring process, it helps to keep the surgical drainage channel open and functional. This allows the fluid inside the eye to drain properly, maintaining lower eye pressure and helping to preserve vision in patients with glaucoma.
How it’s used
5-Fluorouracil Injection is a specialised medicine that is always administered by a qualified ophthalmologist in a hospital or clinic setting. It is never for self-use at home.
- Administration: The medicine is given as a subconjunctival injection. This means it is injected directly next to the ‘bleb’ – the small, blister-like area under the conjunctiva that forms after glaucoma filtering surgery.
- Dosing: The strength of the injection is typically 50 mg/mL, with a 5 mg dose being administered. Your ophthalmologist will determine the exact dose and frequency based on your specific condition, the surgical outcome, and the need to prevent scarring.
- Repeat Injections: The injection may be repeated as needed, depending on how your eye is healing and whether there is a risk of scar tissue formation. Your doctor will carefully monitor your eye and decide if and when additional injections are required.
- Post-Injection Care: After the injection, your ophthalmologist will provide specific instructions for post-procedure care. It is crucial to follow these instructions diligently to ensure the best possible outcome and to monitor for any potential side effects. You will likely have follow-up appointments to check your eye pressure and the condition of the bleb.
Remember, this medicine is part of a comprehensive treatment plan for glaucoma and is used to enhance the success of your surgery. Always communicate any concerns or changes in your vision or eye comfort to your doctor immediately.
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 Injection is a valuable tool in preventing scarring after eye surgery, it’s important to be aware of potential precautions and side effects. Your ophthalmologist will discuss these with you before administering the injection.
- Transient Corneal Surface Toxicity: The most common precaution associated with 5-Fluorouracil Injection is the potential for transient corneal surface toxicity. The cornea is the clear front part of your eye. ‘Transient’ means it is temporary, and ‘toxicity’ refers to a mild irritation or damage to the surface cells of the cornea. This can manifest as:
- Mild discomfort or irritation in the eye.
- Temporary blurred vision.
- Sensitivity to light.
- Redness of the eye.
Your doctor will monitor for these signs and may prescribe lubricating eye drops or other treatments to manage any discomfort. This effect is usually temporary and resolves as the eye heals.
- Prescription Medicine: 5-Fluorouracil Injection is a prescription eye medicine and must only be used as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist. It is administered only by specialists in a hospital or clinic setting and is never for self-use.
- General Warnings: This page provides general education and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or a prescription. Do not self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. Always discuss any pre-existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking with your ophthalmologist before receiving this treatment.
Your doctor will weigh the benefits of preventing scarring against any potential risks and ensure that this treatment is appropriate for your specific situation. If you experience any unusual or severe symptoms after the injection, contact your ophthalmologist immediately.
Understanding Glaucoma and Surgical Treatment
Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to irreversible vision loss if not managed properly. It’s often called the ‘silent thief of sight’ because it usually progresses without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. The main cause of vision loss in glaucoma is damage to the optic nerve, which transmits visual information from your eye to your brain. This damage is frequently linked to high pressure inside the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP).
When eye drops or laser treatments are not enough to control the eye pressure, your ophthalmologist may recommend surgery. One common surgical procedure is glaucoma filtering surgery, also known as trabeculectomy. During this surgery, a tiny new drainage channel is created in the eye to allow excess fluid to flow out, thereby lowering the eye pressure. This fluid collects in a small blister-like area called a ‘bleb’ under the conjunctiva (the clear membrane covering the white part of your eye). The success of this surgery depends on this bleb remaining open and functional, allowing continuous drainage.
Sometimes, the body’s natural healing response can be overactive, leading to the formation of scar tissue around this new drainage channel or bleb. If too much scar tissue forms, it can block the channel, causing the eye pressure to rise again and potentially leading to surgical failure. This is where medicines like 5-Fluorouracil Injection play a crucial role. They are used to prevent this excessive scarring, helping to ensure the long-term success of your glaucoma surgery and maintain your vision.
General Eye Care and Hygiene After Eye Procedures
After any eye procedure, especially one involving injections or surgery, maintaining excellent eye hygiene is paramount to prevent infections and promote healing. Here are some general guidelines:
- Hand Hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your eyes or applying any prescribed eye drops or ointments. This is the simplest yet most effective way to prevent introducing germs into your eye.
- Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: It’s natural to want to rub your eyes if they feel irritated, but this can dislodge healing tissues, introduce infection, or worsen any discomfort. Try to resist the urge to rub.
- Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Your ophthalmologist will give you specific instructions regarding post-procedure care, including when you can resume normal activities, whether you need to wear an eye shield, and how to use any prescribed medications. Follow these instructions precisely.
- Protect Your Eyes: Avoid dusty or smoky environments, and consider wearing protective eyewear (like sunglasses) outdoors to shield your eyes from wind, dust, and bright light, especially in the initial healing period.
- Avoid Contaminants: Refrain from swimming, using hot tubs, or applying eye makeup until your doctor advises it is safe. These activities can introduce bacteria into your healing eye.
- Cleanliness of Eye Drops/Ointments: If you are prescribed eye drops or ointments for home use, ensure the tip of the dropper or tube does not touch your eye, eyelid, or any other surface. This prevents contamination of the medicine. Close the cap tightly after each use.
Remember, your eyes are delicate, and proper care after any medical intervention is vital for a smooth recovery and the best possible outcome.
When to Seek Medical Help
While 5-Fluorouracil Injection is administered by your doctor, and you will have follow-up appointments, it’s important to know when to contact your ophthalmologist immediately. Early detection and management of complications can prevent serious issues. Seek urgent medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Sudden Decrease in Vision: Any sudden or significant change in your vision, such as blurring, dimness, or loss of sight.
- Severe Eye Pain: While some mild discomfort is normal after an injection or surgery, severe or worsening eye pain is a red flag.
- Increased Redness or Swelling: If your eye becomes significantly redder, more swollen, or if the redness spreads.
- Discharge from the Eye: Any yellow, green, or thick discharge from your eye could indicate an infection.
- Flashes of Light or New Floaters: Seeing new flashes of light or an increase in ‘floaters’ (small spots or lines that drift across your vision) could indicate other eye issues.
- Fever or Chills: These could be signs of a systemic infection.
- Any Other Concerning Symptoms: If you feel that something is not right, or if you have any new or worsening symptoms that concern you, do not hesitate to contact your ophthalmologist.
It’s always better to be safe and get your symptoms checked by a professional. Your doctor is your best resource for guidance and care after your eye procedure.
Frequently asked questions
What is 5-Fluorouracil Injection used for?
5-Fluorouracil Injection is used as an anti-scarring medicine after glaucoma filtering surgery or bleb needling. It helps prevent scar tissue from forming and blocking the surgical drainage channel, which is crucial for maintaining lower eye pressure in glaucoma patients.
How does 5-Fluorouracil Injection work?
It works by preventing the excessive growth of cells that form scar tissue. After glaucoma surgery, the body can sometimes create too much scar tissue, which can close the new drainage channel. 5-Fluorouracil interferes with this process, keeping the channel open and functional.
What are the common Indian brands for this medicine?
In India, 5-Fluorouracil Injection for ophthalmic use is typically known by its generic name, '5-FU injection (ophthalmic use)'.
How is 5-Fluorouracil Injection administered?
It is given as a subconjunctival injection, meaning it is injected next to the bleb (the surgical drainage site) in the eye. This procedure is always performed by a qualified ophthalmologist in a hospital or clinic setting and is never for self-use.
Do I need a prescription for 5-Fluorouracil Injection?
Yes, 5-Fluorouracil Injection is a prescription eye medicine. It is only used as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist and is administered only by specialists in a hospital or clinic setting.
What are the key precautions or side effects to be aware of?
The main precaution is that it can cause transient (temporary) corneal surface toxicity, which might lead to mild eye discomfort, temporary blurred vision, or light sensitivity. Your doctor will monitor for this and manage any symptoms. Always follow your doctor's instructions and report any unusual symptoms immediately.
References
- Eye health – MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine)
- Eye health information – American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Learn about eye health – National Eye Institute (NIH)
- Blindness and vision impairment – World Health Organization
- StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
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.