Indications 

Prolensa is a prescribed medication for post-cataract surgery patients, used to alleviate inflammation and minimize eye discomfort. 

Classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), Prolensa functions by inhibiting the activity of specific natural substances (prostaglandins) responsible for inducing pain and inflammation. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Prolensa and with each prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Seek clarification from your doctor or pharmacist if you have any uncertainties. 

Prolensa is typically administered as one drop per day in the affected eye, starting one day before surgery, continuing on the day of surgery, and for the first 14 days after surgery. 

A single bottle of Prolensa is intended for the treatment of one eye only.  

This medication is not suitable for use while wearing contact lenses. If you are currently wearing contact lenses, remove them before using these eye drops and reinsert them after a 10-minute interval following the administration of the eye drop. 

To properly administer Prolensa, follow these steps: 

1. Before application, ensure that you wash your hands. 
   • To prevent contamination, refrain from touching the dropper tip or allowing it to make contact with your eye or any other surface. 
2. Tilt your head back and look upward, then gently pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket. 
3. Directly position the dropper over your eye and carefully place one drop into the pocket. 
4. Look downward and softly close your eyes for approximately 1 to 2 minutes. 
5. Apply gentle pressure with one finger at the corner of your eye near the nose to prevent the medication from draining out. 
   • Avoid blinking and refrain from rubbing your eye during this time. 
6. Do not rinse the dropper and remember to replace the cap after each use. 

Prolensa can be used together with other topical ophthalmic medications, including alpha-agonists, beta-blockers, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, cycloplegics, and mydriatics. Ensure to administer the drops with a minimum interval of 5 minutes between each medication. 

To maximize the benefits of this medication, ensure regular usage at consistent times each day as directed. 

Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage and duration of this medication as instructed by your doctor. Prolonged usage of Prolensa may heighten the likelihood of severe eye-related side effects. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Prolensa. If any of them persists or worsens, inform your doctor immediately. 

Common Side Effects 

• Heightened sensitivity of the eyes to light 
• Mild eye irritation or sensation of foreign object presence 
• Headache 
• Perception of flashes of light or “floaters” in vision 

Serious Side Effects 

• Alterations in vision 
• Delayed healing following eye surgery 
• Redness or bleeding in the eye 
• Eye pain or swelling 
• Intense eye discomfort, excessive tearing, crusting, or discharge 

Discontinue the use of Prolensa and promptly contact your physician if you experience any of the serious side effects listed above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Prolensa may occur. Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience indications of an allergic reaction, such as: 

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Swelling face, lips, tongue, or throat 

Not all side effects of Prolensa are included in this list. Tell your doctor right away if any unlisted effects occur. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Prolensa, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to: 

• Bromfenac 
• Aspirin 
• Other NSAIDs (e.g., naproxen, celecoxib) 
• Other medications 

Talk to your pharmacist for further information, as Prolensa may contain inactive components (such as sulfites), that may trigger allergic reactions or other complications. 

To ensure Prolensa is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Asthma (including a past experience of breathing difficulties after consuming aspirin or other NSAIDs) 
• Bleeding disorders 
• Other eye conditions (like dry eye syndrome or corneal problems) 
• Diabetes 
• Rheumatoid arthritis 
• Nasal polyps (growths in the nose) 

Ensure all your healthcare providers are informed of any current, newly started, or stopped medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to mitigate the risk of drug interaction with Prolensa.  

Some of the products that may interact with Prolensa include: 

• Anti-platelet medications (e.g., clopidogrel) 
• Other NSAID medications (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen) 
• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, heparin) 

For additional guidance on the continued use of low-dose aspirin (usually 81-162 milligrams per day) as a preventive measure against heart attacks or strokes, kindly seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist. 

Exercise caution when operating a vehicle or engaging in potentially dangerous tasks as Prolensa may result in blurred vision and impaired reaction time. Familiarize yourself with the effects of this medication before engaging in such activities. 

Pregnant individuals should refrain from using Prolensa unless specifically advised by their doctor. Administration of an NSAID in the final 20 weeks of pregnancy may result in significant cardiac or renal issues for the fetus, as well as potential complications for the pregnancy. 

Consult your doctor before breastfeeding as it is uncertain whether bromfenac is excreted into breast milk.