5-Fluorouracil + Low Molecular Weight Heparin: Uses & Dosage

5-Fluorouracil + Low Molecular Weight Heparin is a medicine used during eye surgery to help prevent scarring in certain high-risk retinal conditions.

Drug class	Surgical Adjunct
Type	Combination
Forms	Intraocular infusion
Common strength	Varies
Common Indian brands	Intra-operative infusion adjunct
Prescription status	Prescription (hospital use)

What 5-Fluorouracil + Low Molecular Weight Heparin is used for

At Pristine Eye Hospitals, your vision health is our priority. When you undergo certain eye surgeries, especially those for complex retinal conditions, our specialists might use a special medicine called 5-Fluorouracil + Low Molecular Weight Heparin. This medicine is a combination of two active ingredients, carefully chosen to assist in the healing process after surgery and improve the chances of a successful outcome.

This intraocular infusion adjunct is specifically used for:

Prevention of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) in high-risk retinal detachment (RD) surgery.

Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition where the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye, pulls away from its normal position. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss. Surgery is often required to reattach the retina. In some cases, especially those considered ‘high-risk’, there’s a chance of developing a complication called Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy (PVR). PVR involves the growth of scar tissue inside the eye, which can pull on the retina again, leading to further detachments and making successful repair more challenging. This medicine is used to help prevent this scarring from occurring.

Our vitreoretinal surgeons are highly experienced in managing complex retinal conditions and will determine if this adjunct therapy is suitable for your specific surgical needs. They will explain the benefits and answer any questions you may have, ensuring you feel comfortable and well-informed throughout your treatment journey at Pristine Eye Hospitals.

How it works

Understanding how your medicines work can help you feel more confident about your treatment. 5-Fluorouracil + Low Molecular Weight Heparin is a combination medicine that works in two important ways to reduce the risk of scarring after retinal surgery:

5-Fluorouracil (an antimetabolite): This component helps to prevent the excessive growth of cells that can lead to scar tissue formation inside the eye. By slowing down the activity of these cells, it reduces the chances of new scar tissue developing and pulling on the retina.
Low Molecular Weight Heparin (an anticoagulant): This component acts as a blood thinner. It helps to prevent the formation of blood clots and reduces inflammation within the eye. This is important because blood and inflammatory cells can contribute to the scarring process.

When used together during surgery, these two medicines work synergistically. They are added to the infusion fluid that is used to maintain the shape of your eye during the surgical procedure. This allows the medicine to be delivered directly to the areas where scarring is most likely to occur, providing a targeted approach to prevent Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy (PVR).

By reducing the formation of scar tissue, this combination medicine helps to improve the long-term success rate of retinal detachment surgery, helping to preserve your precious vision. Our specialists at Pristine Eye Hospitals are experts in using such advanced techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.

How it’s used

5-Fluorouracil + Low Molecular Weight Heparin is not a medicine you will administer yourself. It is an ‘intra-operative infusion adjunct’, which means it is used by your eye surgeon during the actual surgical procedure. Here’s what you need to know about its use:

Administered by Specialists: This medicine is exclusively administered by highly trained vitreoretinal surgeons at Pristine Eye Hospitals. It requires specialized knowledge and equipment for its safe and effective use.
During Surgery: The medicine is added directly to the infusion fluid that is used inside your eye during your retinal detachment surgery. This ensures that the medication reaches the precise area where it is needed to prevent scarring.
Precise Dosing: The strength and amount of the medicine used will be carefully determined by your surgeon based on your individual condition and the specific requirements of your surgery. The dosage varies depending on the clinical situation.
Hospital Setting: This treatment is performed only in a hospital or clinic setting, under sterile conditions, as part of your surgical procedure. It is never for self-use or for use outside of a specialized medical environment.

You will not need to do anything special regarding the administration of this medicine. Your surgical team will manage everything related to its use during your operation. After your surgery, your doctor will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions, which may include other eye drops or medications to aid in your recovery. Always follow these instructions carefully for the best healing and visual outcomes.

Always follow your ophthalmologist’s exact instructions.

Brands available in India

Intra-operative infusion adjunct

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 + Low Molecular Weight Heparin is a valuable tool in preventing complications after retinal surgery, it is a powerful medicine and its use requires careful consideration by specialists. Here are some important precautions and warnings:

Specialist Vitreoretinal Use: This medicine is strictly for use by specialist vitreoretinal surgeons. It is not for general ophthalmic use and should only be administered by those with expertise in complex retinal surgery.
Prescription Medicine: This is a prescription eye medicine. It is used only as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist. You cannot obtain or use this medicine on your own.
Hospital Use Only: This medicine is given only by specialists in a hospital or clinic setting as part of a surgical procedure. It is never for self-use or for use at home.
Not for Self-Medication: Do not attempt to self-medicate or reuse an old prescription for any eye condition. Always consult with an eye care professional for diagnosis and treatment.
General Education: This page provides general education and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or a prescription. Your surgeon will discuss the specific risks and benefits with you before your procedure.

Your surgeon at Pristine Eye Hospitals will thoroughly evaluate your condition and medical history to determine if this treatment is appropriate for you. They will explain any potential risks or considerations specific to your case and ensure all necessary precautions are taken to safeguard your health and vision.

Understanding Retinal Detachment and Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy (PVR)

The retina is a thin layer of tissue at the back of your eye that is crucial for vision. It acts much like the film in a camera, capturing light and sending signals to your brain. When the retina detaches, it pulls away from its normal position, leading to blurred vision, flashes of light, or a sudden increase in floaters. This is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.

Surgery is often necessary to reattach the retina. While modern retinal surgery is highly successful, in some cases, a complication called Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy (PVR) can occur. PVR involves the formation of scar tissue inside the eye. This scar tissue can contract and pull on the reattached retina, causing it to detach again. PVR is a significant challenge in retinal surgery, especially in high-risk cases, and can lead to repeated surgeries and poorer visual outcomes. Medicines like 5-Fluorouracil + Low Molecular Weight Heparin are used as an adjunct during surgery to help prevent this scarring and improve the long-term success of the retinal repair.

At Pristine Eye Hospitals, our vitreoretinal specialists are experts in diagnosing and treating retinal detachment and managing its potential complications. We use advanced surgical techniques and adjunct therapies to give you the best possible chance of preserving and restoring your vision. If you experience any symptoms of retinal detachment, such as a sudden onset of floaters, flashes of light, or a shadow in your vision, seek immediate medical attention.

General Eye Care and Hygiene

Maintaining good eye hygiene is essential for overall eye health, especially when dealing with eye conditions or recovering from surgery. While 5-Fluorouracil + Low Molecular Weight Heparin is used during surgery, general eye care principles remain important for your recovery and long-term well-being.

Hand Hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your eyes or administering any eye drops (if prescribed post-surgery). This helps prevent infections.
Avoid Rubbing Eyes: After surgery, it’s crucial to avoid rubbing or pressing on your eyes, as this can interfere with healing.
Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Your doctor will provide specific instructions for your post-surgical care, which may include using prescribed eye drops, wearing an eye shield, and avoiding certain activities. Adhere to these instructions diligently.
Protect Your Eyes: Wear protective eyewear as recommended by your doctor, especially during activities that might pose a risk to your eyes.
Regular Check-ups: Even after recovery, regular eye check-ups are vital to monitor your eye health and detect any potential issues early.

Proper care and hygiene play a significant role in ensuring a smooth recovery and maintaining the health of your eyes. If you have any questions about your post-operative care or general eye hygiene, do not hesitate to ask your medical team at Pristine Eye Hospitals.

When to Seek Medical Help

Your journey with Pristine Eye Hospitals doesn’t end after your surgery. We are here to support you through your recovery. It’s important to be aware of signs that might indicate a complication or require immediate medical attention. While 5-Fluorouracil + Low Molecular Weight Heparin is used during surgery, certain symptoms after your procedure should prompt you to contact your doctor immediately:

Sudden Decrease in Vision: Any sudden, significant loss or change in your vision.
Increased Pain: Severe or worsening eye pain that is not relieved by prescribed pain medication.
New Floaters or Flashes: A sudden appearance of new floaters (small specks or cobwebs in your vision) or flashes of light.
Redness or Swelling: Significant redness, swelling, or discharge from the eye that is worsening.
Light Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to light that is bothersome.
Shadow or Curtain in Vision: A new shadow or curtain-like effect blocking part of your vision.

These symptoms could indicate a complication such as a re-detachment of the retina or an infection, which require prompt evaluation and treatment. Do not wait to see if the symptoms improve on their own. Always contact your ophthalmologist or the emergency services at Pristine Eye Hospitals immediately if you experience any of these warning signs. Early intervention can make a significant difference in preserving your vision and ensuring a successful recovery. Our team is always ready to provide the care and support you need.

Frequently asked questions

What is 5-Fluorouracil + Low Molecular Weight Heparin used for?

This medicine is used during eye surgery to help prevent a complication called proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) in high-risk retinal detachment (RD) surgery. PVR involves the growth of scar tissue inside the eye, which can cause the retina to detach again.

How does 5-Fluorouracil + Low Molecular Weight Heparin work?

It is a combination of two medicines. 5-Fluorouracil is an antimetabolite that helps prevent the growth of cells that form scar tissue. Low Molecular Weight Heparin is an anticoagulant that helps prevent blood clots and reduces inflammation. Together, they reduce scarring inside the eye during surgery.

Are there specific Indian brands for this medicine?

This medicine is referred to as an 'Intra-operative infusion adjunct'. It is not typically sold under specific brand names for patient purchase, as it is prepared and used by specialists during surgery in a hospital setting.

How is 5-Fluorouracil + Low Molecular Weight Heparin used?

It is administered by a specialist vitreoretinal surgeon during eye surgery. It is added to the infusion fluid that is used inside your eye during the procedure. It is never for self-use or for use outside of a hospital or clinic setting.

Do I need a prescription for 5-Fluorouracil + Low Molecular Weight Heparin?

Yes, this is a prescription eye medicine and is used only as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist. It is administered by specialists in a hospital or clinic setting and is never for self-use.

What are the key precautions for 5-Fluorouracil + Low Molecular Weight Heparin?

This medicine is for specialist vitreoretinal use only and is administered exclusively by qualified surgeons in a hospital or clinic. It is a prescription medicine and never for self-medication. Always follow your doctor's instructions, and this information is for general education, not a substitute for professional medical advice.

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.