Should FML be continued more than a week for conjunctivitis?

Question

Hi doctor,

I had viral conjunctivitis a month ago. I was on FML for one week, and after that, my eye got normal. I was asked to taper the dose and stop FML in three weeks by my doctor. I did so, but as soon as I stopped it, my eyes started to redden again.

My doctor said it was an allergy. I am on an antihistamine now, but the allergy alternates in flaring up and waning rapidly with an antihistamine.

Is it all because I stopped FML?
Should I continue FML?

Kindly assist.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

Sometimes, episodes of redness can be anticipated after tapering steroids (FML - Fluorometholone). However, we do not have advice on steroids for a prolonged time due to their side effect profile.

Use of steroid-sparing agents is advocated. These include anti-inflammatories like NSAID drops (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drops), Cyclosporine drops, and antihistamine drops. Kindly consult your ophthalmologist again to see if any add-on medications are necessary. Your doctor may also start FML for a brief time. Please, do not self-medicate.

Please let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.