Flurbiprofen Eye Drops: Uses, Brands & Dosage

Flurbiprofen is an anti-inflammatory eye drop used to prevent pupil constriction during cataract surgery and to manage post-operative inflammation.

Drug class	NSAID (Topical)
Type	Single
Forms	Eye Drop
Common strength	0.03%
Common Indian brands	Ocuflur, Flur
Prescription status	Prescription

What Flurbiprofen is used for

Flurbiprofen eye drops are primarily used in ophthalmology to help manage specific conditions related to eye surgery. As an anti-inflammatory medication, it plays a crucial role in ensuring better outcomes for patients undergoing certain procedures. The main uses for Flurbiprofen include:

Preventing pupil constriction during cataract surgery: This is a very important application. During cataract surgery, it’s essential for the pupil (the black centre of your eye) to remain wide and open. Flurbiprofen helps achieve this by preventing the pupil from becoming smaller, which allows the surgeon a clearer and more stable view of the lens, making the surgery safer and more effective.
Managing post-operative inflammation: After any eye surgery, especially cataract surgery, some degree of inflammation is natural. Flurbiprofen helps to reduce this inflammation, which can contribute to faster healing, less discomfort, and a smoother recovery period for the patient.

By addressing these two key aspects, Flurbiprofen helps to improve the overall experience and results for patients undergoing eye procedures at Pristine Eye Hospitals.

How it works

Flurbiprofen belongs to a class of medicines known as Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). Its mechanism of action in the eye is focused on blocking certain natural substances in the body called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are chemicals that play a significant role in inflammation and pain, and they can also cause the pupil of the eye to constrict or become smaller.

Specifically, during eye surgery like cataract removal, the surgical process itself can trigger the release of these prostaglandins, leading to pupil constriction. By blocking the production and action of these prostaglandins, Flurbiprofen helps to:

Keep the pupil dilated: This is crucial during cataract surgery, as a wide pupil provides the surgeon with an unobstructed view of the eye’s internal structures, making the procedure safer and more precise.
Reduce inflammation: By inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, Flurbiprofen also effectively reduces the inflammatory response that can occur after surgery, helping to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.

In essence, Flurbiprofen acts by targeting the root cause of pupil constriction and inflammation linked to prostaglandins, thereby supporting a smoother surgical process and a more comfortable recovery.

How it’s used

Flurbiprofen eye drops are a prescription medicine and must be used exactly as directed by your ophthalmologist. It is typically used in a very specific manner, especially when preparing for cataract surgery.

The general dosing pattern for preventing pupil constriction during cataract surgery involves:

Frequency: The eye drops are instilled every 30 minutes.
Timing: This regimen usually begins 2 hours before the scheduled surgery.

Your doctor or the nursing staff at Pristine Eye Hospitals will provide you with precise instructions on how and when to use these drops leading up to your surgery. It is crucial to follow these instructions carefully to ensure the medication works effectively for your procedure.

General Guidelines for Instilling Eye Drops:

Wash Your Hands: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling eye drops to prevent contamination.
Prepare the Bottle: Gently shake the bottle if instructed by your doctor. Remove the cap, being careful not to touch the dropper tip.
Position Yourself: Tilt your head back or lie down. Gently pull down your lower eyelid with one finger to create a small pocket.
Instil the Drop: Hold the dropper tip directly over your eye. Squeeze the bottle gently to release one drop into the pocket you created. Avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye, eyelid, or any other surface to prevent contamination.
Close Your Eye: Gently close your eye for a minute or two. Do not blink excessively or squeeze your eyes shut, as this can push the medicine out.
Apply Pressure (Optional): If instructed, gently press your finger against the inner corner of your eye (near your nose) for a minute. This can help prevent the medicine from draining into your tear duct and being absorbed into your bloodstream.
Wipe Excess: Gently blot any excess liquid from your eyelid and lashes with a clean tissue.
Replace Cap: Immediately replace the cap on the bottle, making sure it is tightly sealed.
Wash Hands Again: Wash your hands again after instilling the drops.

Remember, this medication is usually administered under medical supervision or with very clear instructions for pre-surgical use. Never adjust the dose or frequency without consulting your ophthalmologist.

Always follow your ophthalmologist’s exact instructions.

Brands available in India

Ocuflur
Flur

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.

Precautions & side effects

Flurbiprofen eye drops are a prescription medication and should only be used under the guidance of a qualified ophthalmologist. While generally safe when used as directed, there are important precautions to be aware of:

Operating Theatre Drug: Flurbiprofen is mainly considered an ‘operating-theatre drug’. This means its primary use is in a clinical setting, specifically in preparation for and during eye surgeries like cataract surgery. Its use outside of this specific context is uncommon and should only be initiated by a specialist.
Prescription Only: This is a prescription eye medicine. It is crucial to use it only as directed by your ophthalmologist. Do not self-medicate or reuse an old prescription, as this can be dangerous and ineffective.
Not for General Eye Irritation: Do not use Flurbiprofen for general eye irritation, redness, or discomfort without a specific diagnosis and prescription from an eye doctor. It is not a general-purpose eye drop.
Contamination: Always ensure the dropper tip does not touch your eye, eyelid, fingers, or any other surface to prevent contamination of the eye drop solution. Contaminated eye drops can lead to serious eye infections.
Storage: Store the eye drops as instructed by your pharmacist or doctor, typically in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.
Disposal: Discard the bottle after the prescribed treatment period, even if there is medicine left. Do not save it for future use.
Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any known allergies to NSAIDs (like aspirin, ibuprofen, or other anti-inflammatory medicines) or any other medications.
Other Eye Conditions: Discuss your complete medical history, including any other eye conditions or medications you are currently using (including over-the-counter drops), with your ophthalmologist before starting Flurbiprofen.

Your ophthalmologist at Pristine Eye Hospitals will assess your individual health profile and provide specific advice regarding the safe use of Flurbiprofen eye drops for your condition.

Understanding Cataracts and Eye Inflammation

At Pristine Eye Hospitals, we believe that informed patients are empowered patients. Flurbiprofen eye drops are often prescribed in relation to cataract surgery, so it’s helpful to understand what cataracts are and why managing inflammation is important.

A cataract is a common eye condition where the natural lens inside your eye becomes cloudy. This cloudiness can make your vision blurry, hazy, or less colourful, similar to looking through a frosty or dirty window. Cataracts usually develop slowly over time and are a natural part of ageing, though they can sometimes occur due to injury, certain medical conditions, or long-term use of some medications. When cataracts significantly affect your daily life and vision, surgery is typically recommended to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with a clear artificial one. This procedure is one of the most common and successful surgeries performed worldwide.

During any surgery, including cataract surgery, the body’s natural response can be to trigger inflammation. Inflammation is a protective mechanism, but excessive or uncontrolled inflammation in the eye can cause discomfort, slow down healing, and potentially affect the surgical outcome. Medicines like Flurbiprofen are used to carefully manage this inflammatory response, ensuring your eye remains calm and heals optimally after the procedure. Preventing the pupil from constricting during surgery is also vital, as it allows the surgeon a clear view, making the operation safer and more precise.

Correct Use and Hygiene for Eye Drops

Using eye drops correctly is crucial for their effectiveness and to prevent complications. Here are some general guidelines to ensure you get the most benefit from your Flurbiprofen eye drops and maintain good eye hygiene:

Always Wash Your Hands: Before and after using eye drops, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water. This is the most important step to prevent introducing germs into your eye.
Do Not Touch the Dropper Tip: Never let the tip of the eye drop bottle touch your eye, eyelid, eyelashes, or any other surface. This can contaminate the solution, potentially leading to eye infections. If the tip does get contaminated, it’s best to discard the bottle and use a new one if available, after consulting your doctor.
Follow Dosing Instructions Precisely: Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how many drops to use and how often. It is vital to follow these instructions exactly. Do not use more or less than prescribed, and do not stop using the drops prematurely, even if your eye feels better, unless advised by your ophthalmologist.
Proper Instillation Technique: Tilt your head back, gently pull down your lower eyelid to form a pocket, and look up. Squeeze one drop into the pocket. Close your eye gently for a minute or two to allow the medicine to absorb. Avoid blinking excessively or squeezing your eyes shut.
Wait Between Different Drops: If you are using more than one type of eye drop, wait at least 5-10 minutes between different medications. This prevents one drop from washing out the other. Your doctor or pharmacist can advise on the correct order if needed.
Storage: Store your eye drops as directed on the packaging or by your pharmacist. Typically, they should be kept in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Do not freeze eye drops unless specifically instructed.
Check Expiry Date: Always check the expiry date on the bottle. Do not use expired eye drops.
Discard After Opening: Most eye drop bottles should be discarded a certain period after opening (usually 28 days), even if there is still medicine left. This is because once opened, the solution can become contaminated. Mark the opening date on the bottle to help you remember.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While Flurbiprofen is generally well-tolerated, it’s important to know when to contact your ophthalmologist or seek immediate medical attention. Your eye health is our priority at Pristine Eye Hospitals.

You should contact your ophthalmologist at Pristine Eye Hospitals immediately if you experience any of the following after using Flurbiprofen eye drops:

Severe Eye Pain: Any new or worsening severe pain in or around your eye.
Sudden Vision Changes: A sudden decrease in vision, new floaters, flashes of light, or any other significant change in your sight.
Increased Redness or Swelling: If your eye becomes significantly redder, more swollen, or more inflamed than before.
Pus or Discharge: Any new yellow or green discharge from your eye, which could indicate an infection.
Sensitivity to Light: New or increased sensitivity to light (photophobia).
Allergic Reaction Symptoms: Signs of an allergic reaction such as severe itching, rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. While rare for topical eye drops, these require immediate medical attention.
No Improvement or Worsening Condition: If your symptoms do not improve as expected, or if they seem to worsen despite using the drops as prescribed.

Remember, this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or a prescription. Always consult your qualified ophthalmologist at Pristine Eye Hospitals for any concerns regarding your eye health or medication. Do not self-medicate or reuse an old prescription.

Frequently asked questions

What is Flurbiprofen used for?

Flurbiprofen eye drops are used to prevent the pupil from constricting (getting smaller) during cataract surgery and to reduce inflammation in the eye after surgery.

How does Flurbiprofen work?

Flurbiprofen works by blocking the production of natural substances called prostaglandins in the eye. Prostaglandins are chemicals that can cause the pupil to constrict and contribute to inflammation.

What are the common Indian brands of Flurbiprofen eye drops?

In India, Flurbiprofen eye drops are commonly available under brand names such as Ocuflur and Flur.

How should I use Flurbiprofen eye drops?

Flurbiprofen eye drops are typically instilled every 30 minutes, starting 2 hours before cataract surgery. Always follow the precise instructions given by your ophthalmologist.

Do I need a prescription for Flurbiprofen eye drops?

Yes, Flurbiprofen is a prescription eye medicine. You must use it only as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist and should not self-medicate or reuse an old prescription.

What are the key precautions I should take when using Flurbiprofen?

Flurbiprofen is mainly used in an operating theatre setting. It is a prescription-only medicine, so use it strictly as directed by your doctor. Do not use it for general eye irritation, and always ensure proper hygiene when instilling drops to prevent contamination.

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.