Nepafenac

• Type: Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) for the eyes

• Main Use: Reduces pain, redness, and swelling in the eyes, especially after cataract surgery or other eye procedures.

How It Works

• Nepafenac is a prodrug — once inside the eye, it converts into amfenac, an active NSAID.

• It blocks cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which decreases prostaglandins, the chemicals responsible for inflammation, pain, and swelling.

Common Uses

• Post-cataract surgery inflammation

• Pain relief after eye surgery

• Prevention of macular edema (swelling in the retina) in diabetic patients after cataract surgery

Advantages

• Penetrates well into the eye tissues for effective inflammation control

• Reduces pain and discomfort without using steroids (avoids steroid-related side effects)

• Lower risk of increasing intraocular pressure compared to corticosteroids

Forms Available

• Usually available as eye drops in 0.1% or 0.3% strength

Possible Side Effects

• Mild burning or stinging when applied

• Temporary blurred vision

• Eye redness or irritation

• Rarely, delayed healing of corneal wounds or corneal thinning (if used for too long)

Precautions

• Should be used as prescribed, typically for a short duration around eye surgery

• Caution in patients with bleeding disorders, as NSAIDs may slightly increase bleeding risk

• Not for use in people allergic to NSAIDs like aspirin

• Avoid touching the dropper tip to prevent contamination