Fluorescein Sodium (topical) is a diagnostic dye used by eye specialists to help detect various eye conditions and assist in certain eye examinations.
| Drug class | Diagnostic Dye |
|---|---|
| Type | Single |
| Forms | Impregnated Strip / Eye Drop |
| Common strength | 1% / 2% |
| Common Indian brands | Fluorescein strips / 2% solution |
| Prescription status | Prescription (clinic use) |
What Fluorescein Sodium (topical) is used for
Fluorescein Sodium (topical) is a special orange dye used by ophthalmologists (eye doctors) at Pristine Eye Hospitals to help diagnose and manage several eye conditions. It is not a treatment medicine but a diagnostic tool that helps your doctor see problems on the surface of your eye more clearly.
- Detecting corneal abrasions and ulcers (scratches or sores on the clear front surface of the eye)
- Seidel test (checking for a leaking wound on the eye, often after injury or surgery)
- Applanation tonometry (a method to measure the pressure inside your eye)
- Contact lens fitting (to assess how well a contact lens fits your eye)
- Tear break-up time (to evaluate the stability of your tear film)
How it works
Fluorescein Sodium (topical) works as an orange dye. When applied to the eye, it has a unique property: it pools in any break or irregularity on the surface of the cornea (the clear, outermost layer of your eye). When your eye doctor then shines a special blue light onto your eye, the areas where the dye has pooled will glow a bright green. This allows the doctor to easily identify and assess any damage, scratches, or other issues on the corneal surface that might not be visible under normal light. It’s a very helpful tool for precise diagnosis.
How it’s used
Fluorescein Sodium (topical) is always applied by a qualified ophthalmologist or trained healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic setting at Pristine Eye Hospitals. It is never for self-use. It is typically applied once at the time of your eye examination. Your doctor will either use a special strip impregnated with the dye or a 2% solution eye drop. The application is quick and painless, and it helps your doctor gather important information about your eye health.
Always follow your ophthalmologist’s exact instructions.
Brands available in India
- Fluorescein strips / 2% solution
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 Fluorescein Sodium (topical) is generally safe, there are a few important points to be aware of:
- It will temporarily stain your tears, which is harmless and will clear up on its own.
- If you wear soft contact lenses, please inform your doctor. You will need to remove your soft contact lenses before the dye is applied, as it can stain them. You can reinsert your lenses after the examination, as advised by your doctor.
- This dye is harmless and the temporary staining will not cause any long-term issues.
Understanding Your Cornea and Eye Health
The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped front surface of your eye. It’s like a transparent window that allows light to enter your eye, and it plays a crucial role in focusing vision. Because it’s exposed to the environment, the cornea can sometimes get scratched (an abrasion) or develop sores (ulcers) due to injury, infection, or other factors. These conditions can be painful and, if left untreated, can affect your vision. Similarly, the tear film, a thin layer of fluid that covers the cornea, is essential for keeping your eyes moist, healthy, and providing clear vision. Problems with the tear film, such as dry eyes, can lead to discomfort and visual disturbances. Regular eye check-ups at Pristine Eye Hospitals are vital for detecting such issues early and ensuring your eyes remain healthy.
Conditions like corneal abrasions, ulcers, or issues with tear film stability often require careful examination. This is where diagnostic tools like Fluorescein Sodium become invaluable. By highlighting specific areas, your ophthalmologist can accurately assess the extent of any damage or identify underlying problems, leading to a precise diagnosis and the most appropriate treatment plan for you. Understanding these basic aspects of eye health can help you appreciate why certain diagnostic tests are performed.
General Advice for Eye Drop Use and Hygiene
While Fluorescein Sodium (topical) is administered by a professional, many eye conditions require patients to use eye drops or ointments at home. Proper technique is crucial for these medicines to work effectively and to prevent contamination. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your eyes or handling eye drops. Tilt your head back, gently pull down your lower eyelid to form a small pocket, and look up. Administer the prescribed number of drops without touching the tip of the dropper to your eye or any other surface. Close your eye gently for a minute or two to allow the medicine to absorb. If you need to use more than one type of eye drop, wait at least 5-10 minutes between different drops to ensure each medicine has enough time to work.
Maintaining good hygiene is paramount for eye health. Avoid rubbing your eyes, especially with unwashed hands, as this can introduce germs and worsen existing conditions. Always use fresh, clean tissues to blot any excess drops around your eyes. Never share eye drops or ointments with others, as this can spread infections. Store all eye medicines as directed by your doctor or pharmacist, usually in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Check the expiry date and discard any expired medications. If you experience any unusual symptoms, increased redness, pain, or blurred vision after using eye drops, contact Pristine Eye Hospitals immediately.
When to Seek Professional Medical Help
Your vision is precious, and any changes or concerns about your eyes should be addressed promptly by a qualified ophthalmologist. While this page provides general information, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or a prescription. If you experience sudden vision changes, severe eye pain, persistent redness, discharge from your eye, sensitivity to light, or any other worrying symptoms, do not hesitate to contact Pristine Eye Hospitals. Early detection and treatment are often key to preventing more serious complications and preserving your eyesight. Remember, Fluorescein Sodium (topical) is a prescription eye medicine and is only used as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist in a clinic or hospital setting. Do not attempt to self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. Your eye doctor is the best person to guide you through your eye care journey.
Frequently asked questions
What is Fluorescein Sodium (topical) used for?
Fluorescein Sodium (topical) is a diagnostic dye used by eye specialists to help detect corneal abrasions and ulcers, perform the Seidel test, assist in applanation tonometry, aid in contact lens fitting, and evaluate tear break-up time.
How does Fluorescein Sodium (topical) work?
It is an orange dye that, when applied to the eye, pools in any break or irregularity on the corneal surface. When a special blue light is shone on the eye, these areas glow bright green, making problems visible to the eye doctor.
What are the common Indian brands of Fluorescein Sodium (topical)?
Common forms available include Fluorescein strips and 2% solution.
How is Fluorescein Sodium (topical) used?
It is applied once at the time of examination by a qualified ophthalmologist or trained healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic setting. It is never for self-use.
Is a prescription needed for Fluorescein Sodium (topical)?
Yes, Fluorescein Sodium (topical) is a prescription eye medicine and is only used as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist in a hospital or clinic setting. It is never for self-use.
What precautions should I take when Fluorescein Sodium (topical) is used?
It will temporarily stain your tears, which is harmless. If you wear soft contact lenses, you must remove them before the dye is applied, as it can stain them. You can reinsert your lenses after the examination, as advised by your doctor.
References
- Fluorescein – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf – NIH
- 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
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.