What is bromfenac ophthalmic?
Bromfenac ophthalmic is a topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat inflammation of the eye. It is often used post-operatively, for example in animals that have had cataract surgery. It may also be used to treat allergic eye conditions such as conjunctivitis and “moon blindness,” a common inflammatory eye condition in horses.
Bromfenac ophthalmic is used off label in a variety of animal species. There are no veterinary brands of bromfenac ophthalmic, but several human brands.
Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
How do I give my pet bromfenac ophthalmic?
- Bromfenac ophthalmic comes as a liquid eye drop to be administered on the surface of the eye.
- Follow the instructions on the product label, in conjunction with your veterinarian’s directions.
- Wash your hands before administering this medication.
- Do not allow the dropper to touch any part of your animal’s eye.
- Shake the bottle well before using.
- If you are administering more than one eye medication, wait 5 minutes between each medication.
- If your pet is also prescribed an eye ointment, ask your veterinarian whether to use the eye drops or ointment first.
- If you are using this medication for a horse, your veterinarian may have implanted a special eye catheter (SPL catheter). Use this catheter exactly as your veterinarian has prescribed.
- If you have difficulty applying the medication or your animal does not accept the treatment, ask your veterinarian for tips to help with administering and reducing the stress of medication time.
- Gently wipe off any residue left on your animal’s face after giving the eye drops with a damp cloth or tissue.
This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 hours and improvement in clinical signs should follow.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Are there any potential side effects?
Bromfenac ophthalmic may cause the following side effects:
- Mild stinging, irritation, or redness of the eyes
- Increased or decreased pupil size
- Headaches and a feeling that something is in the eye (reported in humans but may be experienced in pets)
Serious adverse reactions associated with this drug may occur without warning and could, in rare cases, lead to death. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving bromfenac ophthalmic and contact your veterinarian immediately:
- Labored or noisy breathing or swelling of the throat (indicates a severe allergic reaction)
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Skin rash
- Changes to the surface of the cornea, such as ulceration or melting (thinning)
- Sensitivity to bright light
- Bleeding in the eye
- Eyelid swelling
Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment and notify your veterinarian if you have any concerns. Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects may be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
DO NOT USE bromfenac ophthalmic in:
- Pets that are allergic to it or other drugs like it
USE WITH CAUTION in:
- Pets with bleeding tendencies or using blood-thinning medications (e.g., aspirin, heparin, clopidogrel)
- Pets with diabetes
- Pets with dry eye syndrome
- Pets with asthma (the sulfite preservatives in the medication may trigger an asthma attack)
- Pets with eye injuries or ulcerations, as it may delay healing
- Pets that are pregnant or nursing
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
The following medications should be used with caution when given with bromfenac ophthalmic:
- Corticosteroids (using NSAIDs and corticosteroids together can increase risk of stomach ulceration and may delay healing of ophthalmic lesions)
- Blood-thinning medications such as aspirin, heparin, clopidogrel
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.
- Your veterinarian will let you know when they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
How do I store bromfenac ophthalmic?
- Store at controlled room temperature of 59°F to 77°F (15°C to 25°C)
- Store away from moisture and sunlight.
- Do not freeze.
- Store in the original prescription container.
- Keep the cap tightly closed when not in use.
- Keep away from children and other pets.
- Store compounded forms of this medication according to the label.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms.
