Some of the views expressed in the following notes on newly approved products should be regarded as preliminary, as there may have been limited published data at the time of publication, and little experience in Australia of their safety or efficacy. However, the Editorial Executive Committee believes that comments made in good faith at an early stage may still be of value. Before new drugs are prescribed, the Committee believes it is important that more detailed information is obtained from the manufacturer's approved product information, a drug information centre or some other appropriate source.
Ocufen (Allergan Australia)
0.03% ophthalmic solution in 5 mL dropper bottles
Indication: inhibition of intra-operative miosis
Flurbiprofen is a derivative of the non-steroidal anti inflammatory drug ibuprofen. As it inhibits cyclo-oxygenase, it blocks the prostaglandin mediated pupillary constriction which can occur during ophthalmic surgery.
The eye drops are instilled before surgery. Patients may complain of burning or stinging, with 3% reporting severe discomfort. Although the drug is generally effective and safe, persistent mydriasis and increased bleeding, e.g. hyphaema, have been reported.
