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Bromfenac

NSAID · Ophthalmic Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic

Also known as Bromfenac sodium sesquihydrate

NSAIDOphthalmic Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic
CDSCO approvedSchedule H
EXCRETION
not curated
INTERACTIONS
12 major
SEVERE in our sources
PREGNANCY
not curated
Top interactionssee all 12
  • AminoglycosideSevereTextbookKDT 7e · p746
  • AminoglycosidesSevereTextbookKDT 7e
  • AnticoagulantsSevereTextbookKDT 7e
  • CorticosteroidsSevereTextbookKDT 7e

Mechanism

Bromfenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that belongs to the phenylacetic acid family. Its mechanism of action involves the inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. This inhibition reduces the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are key mediators of inflammation and pain.

Indications

Postoperative ocular inflammation following cataract surgeryPostoperative pain following cataract extractionpostoperative pain and inflammation (after cataract surgery)

Dosing

Adult
l INDICATIONS AND DOSE Local anaesthesia ▶ TO THE EYE ▶ Adult: Apply as required Although multi-dose lidocaine and fluorescein eye drops commonly contain preservatives, preservative-free unit dose vials may be available.…

Side effects

Serious
  • Severe, irreversible liver injury (historically associated with systemic use, led to withdrawal from market)
  • sterile corneal melts
  • perforations (especially in older patients with ocular surface disease)

Drug interactions

Aminoglycoside
Severe
Textbook

Increased risk of nephrotoxicity.

Avoid concurrent use.

Source: KDT 7e · p746

Aminoglycosides
Severe
Textbook

Increased aminoglycoside levels and potential toxicity.

Monitor aminoglycoside levels and renal function; adjust dosage as needed.

Source: KDT 7e

Anticoagulants
Severe
Textbook

Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleed.

Monitor for bleeding; consider alternative analgesics or gastroprotective agents.

Source: KDT 7e

Corticosteroids
Severe
Textbook

Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleed.

Monitor for bleeding; consider gastroprotective agents.

Source: KDT 7e

Cyclosporine
Severe
Textbook

Increased nephrotoxicity.

Avoid concomitant use or monitor renal function closely.

Source: KDT 7e

Dapoxetine
Severe
Textbook

Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleed.

Monitor for bleeding; consider gastroprotective agents or alternative analgesics.

Source: KDT 7e

Enalaprilat
Severe
Textbook

Reduced effectiveness of ACE inhibitors. Marked hyperkalemia, potentially leading to cardiac arrhythmia.

Use with caution, especially in the elderly and in patients with hypertension, diabetes mellitus, or ischemic heart disease.

Source: G&G 14e · p836

Escitalopram + Clonazepam
Severe
Textbook

Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleed.

Monitor for bleeding; consider gastroprotective agents or alternative analgesics.

Source: KDT 7e

Glucocorticoids
Severe
Textbook

Increased risk of gastritis, ulcer formation, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Glucocorticoids can also mask the symptoms of serious gastrointestinal disease, increasing the risk of perforated sigmoid diverticular abscesses.

Not explicitly stated, but implies caution and awareness of increased risk.

Source: G&G 14e · p1013

Quinolones
Severe
Textbook

Enhanced neurological adverse effects.

Use with caution, especially in patients with a history of epilepsy.

Source: G&G 14e · p1144

Acalabrutinib
Severe
Database

Drug interaction classified as: synergy

Source: DDInter

Apixaban
Severe
Database

Drug interaction classified as: synergy

Source: DDInter

Related guidelines

Other NSAID drugs

Ask House about Bromfenac

Continue into a citation-backed clinical answer with the drug context already attached.

Sources: Goodman & Gilman 14e, BNF·Verified: 2026-05-13 · House clinical team