Fluocinolone acetonide is used to treat diabetic macular oedema (a serious swelling in the retina of the eye as a complication of diabetes) in individuals who were previously treated with a similar type of medicine and did not have a significant response.
This medicine may also be used to treat a type of non-infectious swelling in a certain part of the eye.
Fluocinolone acetonide is an eye implant to be given by intravitreal injection (into the space in the back of the eye called the vitreous cavity).
Your eye doctor will administer the injection for you. Your doctor will also give you anaesthesia (medicine to block pain and sensation) to prevent any pain from the injection.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- active or suspected eye infections
- glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
as Fluocinolone acetonide may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- history of eye infections
- other eye problems
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- Routine eye examinations may be done immediately after administration and while you are being treated with Fluocinolone acetonide. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have eye examinations.
- Regular monitoring for signs and symptoms of eye infection or any changes in vision may also be needed.
You may experience some problems with your eyesight, such as blurred vision. Always keep your doctor updated on any changes in your eyesight. If you cannot see clearly, avoid driving and any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, back or joint pain, dry eyes, eye pain or irritation, eye itching, and foreign body sensation in the eye.
If you develop increased eye pain or discomfort, worsening eye redness, flashing lights or sudden increase in eye floaters (small spots in the field of vision), decreased or partial loss of vision, increased sensitivity of the eye to light, and clouding of the lens of the eye, inform your doctor immediately. These could be signs of serious side effects or complications.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or using any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. Do not refrigerate or freeze.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.