Prolensa (Bromfenac 0.07%)

Prolensa (bromfenac ophthalmic solution 0.07%) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) eye drop used to treat eye inflammation and reduce pain after cataract surgery. It's distinguished by once-daily dosing.

How It Works

Bromfenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that:

• Inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes
• Reduces prostaglandin production
• Decreases inflammation and pain
• Helps prevent cystoid macular edema (CME)

Common Uses

• Postoperative inflammation after cataract surgery
• Pain relief after eye surgery
• Prevention of cystoid macular edema
• May be used for other ocular inflammation

How to Use

• Dosing: One drop in the operative eye once daily
• Timing: Start 1 day before surgery, continue for 14 days after
• Contact lenses: Don't wear during treatment
• Technique: Standard drop instillation
• Multiple drops: Wait 5 minutes between different medications

Typical Post-Cataract Surgery Regimen

Many surgeons prescribe:

1. Antibiotic drop (prevent infection)
2. Steroid drop (reduce inflammation)
3. NSAID drop like Prolensa (additional anti-inflammatory, prevent CME)

These work together for optimal healing.

What to Expect

• Helps keep the eye comfortable after surgery
• Reduces inflammation and swelling
• Part of routine post-operative care
• Complete full course as prescribed

Side Effects

Common

• Eye irritation
• Burning or stinging upon instillation
• Eye redness
• Headache

Less Common

• Blurred vision
• Eye pain
• Sensitivity to light
• Corneal problems (with prolonged use)

Rare But Serious

• Corneal melting (especially in at-risk patients)
• Delayed wound healing
• Allergic reaction

Precautions

Special Populations

• Pregnancy: Category C; use only if benefit outweighs risk
• Complicated surgery: May need longer monitoring

Prolensa vs. Other NSAID Eye Drops

NSAID	Dosing	Concentration
Prolensa	Once daily	0.07%
Ilevro	Once daily	0.3%
Bromday	Once daily	0.09%
Nevanac	Three times daily	0.1%
Ketorolac	Four times daily	0.5%

Prolensa's once-daily dosing improves convenience and compliance.

Why Use an NSAID After Cataract Surgery?

Inflammation Control

• NSAIDs complement steroid drops
• Different mechanism than steroids
• May allow lower steroid dose

Cystoid Macular Edema (CME) Prevention

• CME is swelling in the macula after surgery
• Can affect central vision
• NSAIDs help prevent this complication

Pain Control

• Reduces post-operative discomfort
• Works at the source of inflammation

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need both steroid and NSAID drops?

They work through different mechanisms and complement each other. Steroids are powerful anti-inflammatories, while NSAIDs specifically help prevent macular swelling and provide additional inflammation control.

Can I use Prolensa if I'm allergic to aspirin?

If you have aspirin-sensitive asthma or severe aspirin/NSAID allergy, Prolensa may be contraindicated. Discuss with your doctor.

How long do I use Prolensa after surgery?

Typically 14 days (2 weeks) after surgery, starting 1 day before. Follow your surgeon's specific instructions.

Can Prolensa be used for other conditions?

While approved for post-cataract surgery, doctors sometimes use NSAID drops for other inflammatory conditions. This would be off-label use based on clinical judgment.

What if I miss a dose?

Apply the missed dose when you remember. If it's close to your next dose time, skip the missed one. Continue your regular schedule.

Is generic bromfenac available?

Generic bromfenac is available, though not necessarily at the same concentration as Prolensa. Discuss with your doctor and pharmacist.