What is trifluridine ophthalmic?
Trifluridine ophthalmic is an antiviral medication. It fights eye infections that are caused by certain viruses.
Trifluridine ophthalmic is used to treat eye infections caused by the herpes simplex virus, which can lead to swelling or ulcers in the eyelids or cornea (surface of the eyeball).
Trifluridine ophthalmic may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about trifluridine ophthalmic?
Do not use this medication if you are allergic to trifluridine. This medication will not treat an infection that is caused by bacteria or fungus.
The usual dose of trifluridine ophthalmic is one drop into the affected eye every 2 hours while you are awake. Do not use more than 9 drops in the course of one full day.
Once your condition improves, you may need to keep using the medication 4 times daily (up to 5 drops per day) for another 7 days. Your doctor should check your eyes to determine how long you need to use the medicine.
If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying trifluridine ophthalmic. Ask your doctor if contact lenses can be reinserted after putting in the eye drops.
Avoid using other eye medications while using trifluridine ophthalmic, unless your doctor has told you to.
Trifluridine ophthalmic may cause blurred vision. Be careful if you drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that requires you to be able to see clearly.
Do not allow the dropper tip to touch any surface, including the eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.
Do not use the eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it.
Contact your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse after using this medication for 7 days.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using trifluridine ophthalmic?
Do not use this medication if you are allergic to trifluridine. This medication will not treat an infection that is caused by bacteria or fungus.
FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether trifluridine ophthalmic passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Do not use this medication in a child younger than 6 years old.