Pred Forte (prednisolone acetate ophthalmic suspension) 1% is a potent, topically administered corticosteroid specifically formulated for the management of post-operative inflammation following ocular surgery and for the treatment of steroid-responsive inflammatory conditions of the palpebral and bulbar conjunctiva, cornea, and anterior segment of the globe. Its micronized suspension ensures optimal drug delivery and bioavailability at the site of inflammation, making it a cornerstone in ophthalmic therapeutic regimens. This medication is designed for precise application, offering clinicians a reliable tool to control inflammatory cascades, reduce patient discomfort, and promote optimal surgical outcomes.

Features

• Contains 1% prednisolone acetate as the active pharmaceutical ingredient.
• Presented as a sterile, isotonic, buffered ophthalmic suspension.
• Utilizes a micronized particle formulation to enhance corneal penetration and tissue bioavailability.
• Preservative-free formulations are available for patients with benzalkonium chloride sensitivity.
• Supplied in a sealed, tamper-evident bottle with a controlled dropper tip for accurate dosing.
• Stable at room temperature; requires shaking before each administration to re-suspend particles.

Benefits

• Effectively suppresses the inflammatory response by inhibiting the migration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes and reversing increased capillary permeability.
• Significantly reduces pain, photophobia, redness, and edema associated with anterior segment inflammation.
• Helps prevent the formation of posterior synechiae and other sight-threatening complications of uncontrolled intraocular inflammation.
• Facilitates a clearer cornea by reducing stromal and epithelial edema, allowing for better post-operative assessment.
• Promotes a more comfortable and expedited recovery process for patients following surgical intervention.
• Provides a high concentration of active steroid directly to the target tissue with minimal systemic absorption.

Common use

Pred Forte is primarily indicated for the treatment of steroid-responsive inflammatory conditions of the eye. Its most frequent application is in the management of inflammation following various ocular surgeries, including cataract extraction, corneal transplant, and glaucoma filtering procedures. It is also effectively employed in treating conditions such as allergic conjunctivitis, keratitis, iritis, cyclitis, and uveitis of the anterior segment. Ophthalmologists may prescribe it to manage inflammatory episodes in patients with chronic conditions like vernal keratoconjunctivitis. Its use is predicated on a confirmed diagnosis where the benefits of corticosteroid therapy outweigh the potential risks.

Dosage and direction

The dosage of Pred Forte is highly individualized and must be determined by a qualified ophthalmologist based on the severity of the inflammatory condition. For post-operative inflammation, the typical initial dose is 1 to 2 drops instilled into the conjunctival sac of the affected eye(s) two to four times daily. During the initial 24 to 48 hours, dosing may be increased to one drop every hour. Shake the bottle well before each use. To administer, tilt the head back, pull down the lower eyelid to create a pouch, place the drops into the pouch, and close the eye gently. Apply light pressure to the nasolacrimal duct (inner corner of the eye) for 1 to 2 minutes to minimize systemic absorption. Do not touch the dropper tip to any surface to avoid contamination. The frequency of administration should be tapered gradually as inflammation subsides; abrupt discontinuation should be avoided.

Precautions

Prolonged use of corticosteroids may result in glaucoma, with damage to the optic nerve, defects in visual acuity and fields of vision, and posterior subcapsular cataract formation. Intraocular pressure should be routinely monitored, even in patients without a prior history of elevated IOP. Use of ocular steroids may prolong the course and exacerbate the severity of many viral infections of the cornea (e.g., herpes simplex). Fungal infections of the cornea have been reported with long-term steroid applications. Products containing corticosteroids may suppress the host response and thus increase the hazard of secondary ocular infections. Patients should be advised not to wear contact lenses during the course of therapy with this medication. The safety and efficacy of Pred Forte in pediatric patients have not been established.

Contraindications

Pred Forte is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation. Its use is absolutely contraindicated in most active viral diseases of the cornea and conjunctiva, including epithelial herpes simplex keratitis (dendritic keratitis), vaccinia, and varicella. It is also contraindicated in mycobacterial infection of the eye and fungal diseases of ocular structures. Corticosteroids are contraindicated in patients with active, untreated ocular infections caused by pathogens against which they are not effective, such as bacteria, fungi, and most viruses.

Possible side effect

The most frequent side effects associated with Pred Forte are a transient burning or stinging sensation upon instillation, blurred vision immediately after application, and mild discomfort. More serious side effects, which require immediate medical attention, include:

• Increased intraocular pressure (IOP) leading to glaucoma and optic nerve damage.
• Posterior subcapsular cataract formation.
• Delayed wound healing.
• Perforation of the globe in patients with thinning of the cornea or sclera.
• Exacerbation or development of ocular infections (viral, fungal, bacterial).
• Rare systemic effects due to absorption, though uncommon with topical use.

Drug interaction

Formal drug interaction studies have not been conducted with Pred Forte. However, as a corticosteroid, its effects may be antagonized by drugs that induce hepatic enzymes, such as phenytoin, phenobarbital, and rifampin. Conversely, its effects may be potentiated by drugs that inhibit these enzymes. Caution is advised when co-administering with other ocular medications; an interval of at least 5 to 10 minutes should be observed between instillation of different ophthalmic products to prevent dilution and wash-out. Ointments should always be administered last.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be instilled as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. The patient should not instil a double dose to make up for a missed one. Maintaining a consistent dosing schedule is important for controlling inflammation, so patients should be advised to try and adhere to the prescribed regimen.

Overdose

Topical ocular overdose of Pred Forte is unlikely to produce life-threatening systemic effects due to minimal absorption. However, excessive application may lead to increased severity of local adverse effects, such as severe eye irritation, redness, blurred vision, or a significant elevation in intraocular pressure. The eye(s) should be rinsed thoroughly with warm water. Medical attention should be sought, and the patient should be monitored for signs of acute ocular hypertension. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic.

Storage

Store Pred Forte at controlled room temperature, between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Protect from light. The suspension is stable for the period indicated on the packaging. Once the seal is broken, the product should typically be discarded after 28 days to prevent microbial contamination. Do not use if the solution has changed color or become cloudy in an unnatural way. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your ophthalmologist or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. The manufacturer and publisher are not responsible for any errors or omissions or for any consequences from application of the information in this document.

Reviews

“Pred Forte remains the gold standard for managing post-cataract inflammation in my practice. Its efficacy in reducing anterior chamber cell and flare is consistently reliable, and the micronized suspension provides excellent corneal penetration. I always observe a marked decrease in patient-reported discomfort within the first 24-48 hours of treatment.” – Dr. Eleanor Vance, MD, Cornea Specialist

“In cases of severe allergic conjunctivitis unresponsive to mast cell stabilizers, a short, tapered course of Pred Forte provides rapid symptomatic relief and resolves papillary hypertrophy effectively. Monitoring IOP is, of course, paramount, but the benefit-to-risk profile is excellent for short-term use.” – Dr. Ian Schreiber, OD

“As a surgeon, controlling post-operative inflammation is critical for visual recovery and preventing complications. Pred Forte is my first-choice steroid for its proven track record and potency. The ability to titrate the dosing frequency allows for tailored treatment based on the individual patient’s inflammatory response.” – Dr. Samuel Chen, MD, Vitreoretinal Surgeon