Efficacy and tolerance of diclofenac sodium 0.1%, flurbiprofen 0.03%, and indomethacin 1.0% in controlling postoperative inflammation

Abstract

Purpose: 

To compare the anti-inflammatory effect of diclofenac sodium 0.1 % ophthalmic solution, flurbiprofen 0.03% ophthalmic solution, and indomethacin 1.0%.

Setting: 

Department of Ophthalmology, University of Köln, and Bundesknappschaftskrankenhaus, Sulzbach, Germany.

Methods: 

One hundred seventeen patients enrolled in this prospective, randomized, double-masked, and parallel-group study had phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation and received one of the three solutions. Preoperatively at day 1 and postoperatively at day 4 or 5 and day 12, 13, or 14, they were examined by slitlamp, applanation tonometry, and laser flare meter.

Results: 

Anterior chamber flare reduction from baseline was significantly greater in the diclofenac group than in the flurbiprofen group (P = .022). Patients in the diclofenac group had significantly less burning and stinging than those in the flurbiprofen and indomethacin groups at postoperative days 4–5 and 12–14 (P = .001).

Conclusion: 

Diclofenac sodium appeared to be more potent than flurbiprofen in controlling intraocular inflammation after cataract surgery and appeared to be locally tolerated better than flurbiprofen and indomethacin.