Metalone Eye Drop – (0.10%)

Indications

Metalone Ophthalmic Suspension is designed for the effective management of steroid-responsive inflammation affecting the palpebral and bulbar conjunctiva, cornea, and the anterior segment of the eye.

Pharmacology

Fluorometholone Acetate serves as a potent corticosteroid known for its superior anti-inflammatory properties against various inciting factors, including mechanical, chemical, and immunological agents. Its action is believed to stem from the induction of phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins, collectively referred to as lipocortins. These proteins are thought to regulate the synthesis of key inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, by inhibiting the release of their precursor, arachidonic acid. Clinical comparisons between Dexamethasone and Fluorometholone suspensions reveal that Fluorometholone is associated with a lower risk of increasing intraocular pressure.

Dosage & Administration

Before use, shake the bottle thoroughly. Instill 1 to 2 drops into the conjunctival sac two to four times daily. In the first 24 to 48 hours, the dosage may be increased to 2 drops every hour, as needed. It is essential to continue therapy as directed and not to discontinue prematurely.

Use in Children: The safety and efficacy of this medication have not been established in children under the age of 2.
Always follow your doctor’s advice when using this medication.

Interactions

No specific studies on drug interactions with Metalone Ophthalmic Suspension have been conducted.

Contraindications

This medication is contraindicated in patients with acute superficial Herpes simplex keratitis, fungal infections of the eye, vaccinia, varicella, mycobacterial infections, most viral diseases of the cornea and conjunctiva, ocular tuberculosis, or hypersensitivity to any components of this suspension.

Side Effects

Potential side effects include increased intraocular pressure, which may lead to glaucoma, vision loss, eye irritation, ocular hyperemia, pain, visual disturbances, a sensation of a foreign body, eyelid swelling, blurred vision, eye discharge, itching, swelling, cataract formation, ulcerative keratitis, ocular infections (bacterial, fungal, and viral), punctate keratitis, hypersensitivity reactions, rashes, and delayed wound healing.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category B3: Fluorometholone Ophthalmic Suspension should only be used during pregnancy when the potential benefits outweigh the risks to the fetus. It is unclear if topical corticosteroids can be absorbed systemically in sufficient amounts to appear in breast milk. A decision should be made to either continue breastfeeding or the medication based on its importance to the mother.

Precautions & Warnings

Caution is advised when administering steroid treatments to patients with a history of Herpes simplex keratitis. Corticosteroid eye drops should not be used for more than 10 days unless under strict supervision with regular intraocular pressure monitoring. These medications can mask, activate, or exacerbate eye infections. If there is no improvement after several days of use, alternative treatments should be considered.

Therapeutic Class

Ophthalmic Steroid Preparations

Storage Conditions

Store in a cool, dry place away from light. Keep out of reach of children. To prevent contamination, avoid touching the dropper tip to any surfaces, including eyelids and surrounding areas. Ensure the bottle is tightly closed when not in use. Discard any unused suspension four weeks after opening.