Flurbiprofen Ophthalmic Solution (Generic)

What is Flurbiprofen?
Flurbiprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used in the eye to treat or prevent inflammation of the eye (uveitis). It may also be used to inhibit constriction of the pupil during eye surgery.

Who is it for?
Flurbiprofen is used in dogs and cats.

What are the benefits?

How does Flurbiprofen work?
Flurbiprofen contains 0.03% flurbiprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) which helps lower the hormones that cause pain and inflammation.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
This is a generic medication.

How is it given?
Flurbiprofen is dropped directly into your pet's eye.

If discharge is present, the area should be cleansed with a sterile eyewash solution prior to applying the ointment or solution.

Shake the solution well before using. Place one hand under and around your pet's chin and lift upward, so the pet's eyes are looking towards the ceiling. Rest your other hand, holding the bottle, on top of the pet's head. Be sure the tip of the bottle is pointed away from your pet's eye so if your pet jerks, the tip will not injure the eye. Hold the bottle about one inch from the eye. Squeeze the drops into the corner of the eye, taking care not to touch the dropper to the eye surface. Continue to hold the head back for a moment while the drops disperse over the whole eye surface.

Never touch the tip dropper to the pet's eye, lids, or eyelashes. Do not touch the inside of the cap or the dropper or tube tip with your fingers, as this will also contaminate the medication.

Always wash your hands before and after applying Flurbiprofen.

If you are applying more than one medication to the eye, allow 5 minutes between applications so one medication is not washed out by the next. Be sure not to interchange the caps of the medications.

Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian.

This medication should only be given to the pet for whom it was prescribed.

What results can I expect?
Flurbiprofen should help decrease eye inflammation (redness). If doses are missed or the entire treatment regimen is not completed, your pet's symptoms could recur or worsen. Consult your veterinarian if your pet's condition does not improve or worsens after beginning treatment with Flurbiprofen.

What form(s) does it come in?
Flurbiprofen comes in liquid ophthalmic drop form.

Please click on "More Information" for possible drug and food interactions with this medication.

Brand Name
Ocufen

Pronunciation
flure-BI-proe-fen

Common Drug Name
Flurbiprofen sodium

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Flurbiprofen?
Talk to your veterinarian about what type of outcome is expected. Have your veterinarian explain the other treatment options that may be available to treat your pet's condition and what examinations may be necessary while your pet is on Flurbiprofen.

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has hemophilia or any blood clotting disorder.

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your pet is taking. Also if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

This medication should only be given to the pet for whom it was prescribed.

What is the most important information I should know?
Follow your veterinarian's directions and give the full course of Flurbiprofen as prescribed. Consult your veterinarian if the animal's condition does not improve or worsens after beginning treatment with Flurbiprofen. Have your pet's eyes re-examined periodically as recommended by your veterinarian.

Who should not take it?
Not for use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to Flurbiprofen or related NSAIDS.

Do not use in animals with infected corneal ulcers.

Do not use if a viral infection of the eye is present.

Use with caution in animals with hemophilia or other clotting disorders.

Consult with your veterinarian regarding necessary eye examinations and laboratory testing necessary prior to and during treatment with Flurbiprofen.

What side effects may be seen when taking Flurbiprofen?
May increase pressure in the eye.

The medication may sting slightly when first applied.

If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

How is it stored?
Store in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container at room temperature. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
Signs of overdose or toxicity are rare. If you observe increased redness or discharge, squinting, signs that your pet may have trouble seeing, or any other eye related signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Flurbiprofen?
Consult your veterinarian before using Flurbiprofen with any other medications.

Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the Patient Information Sheet on this medication.