Prednisolone Eye Drops — NZ Medication Guide
📋 Reviewed by a Registered Pharmacist NZ — This information is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
What is Prednisolone Eye Drops?
Prednisolone eye drops are a topical corticosteroid used for inflammation of the anterior segment of the eye. This medication is funded by Pharmac for anterior ocular inflammation.
What is Prednisolone Eye Drops Used For?
Prednisolone eye drops are used for anterior uveitis, allergic conjunctivitis, post-surgical ocular inflammation, corneal inflammation, and inflammation following eye injury. They are the most potent topical ocular corticosteroid available.
How Does Prednisolone Eye Drops Work?
Topical prednisolone penetrates ocular tissue and binds to glucocorticoid receptors in the anterior segment, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins, cytokines, and inflammatory cell recruitment — suppressing ocular inflammation.
How to Take Prednisolone Eye Drops
Instil 1–2 drops into the affected eye(s). For acute anterior uveitis: typically every 1–2 hours initially, reducing to 4 times daily as inflammation settles. Shake the suspension well before use. Always wash hands before instilling drops. Tilt head back, pull down lower eyelid, instil drop in the conjunctival sac.
Common Side Effects of Prednisolone Eye Drops
- Temporary stinging or burning
- Blurred vision immediately after instillation
- Headache
Serious Side Effects — Seek Medical Attention
Contact your doctor or call 111 immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Raised intraocular pressure (steroid-induced glaucoma — IOP must be monitored; occurs in 30% of steroid responders)
- Posterior subcapsular cataract (with prolonged use)
- Secondary infections (bacterial, viral, fungal — corticosteroids suppress immunity)
- Corneal perforation (if used in active bacterial or fungal corneal ulcers)
Drug Interactions
Prednisolone Eye Drops may interact with other medicines. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist of all medications you are taking. Key interactions include:
- Other topical ocular medicines (separate instillation by at least 5–10 minutes)
New Zealand Prescribing Information
Prednisolone acetate 1% eye drops (Pred Forte® suspension) are funded by Pharmac. Must be prescribed and monitored by an ophthalmologist or optometrist with prescribing rights. Intraocular pressure (IOP) monitoring is mandatory during prolonged treatment. Never use corticosteroid eye drops for an undiagnosed red eye — can cause catastrophic worsening of herpes simplex keratitis or fungal infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my prednisolone eye drops for a red eye at home?
No — prednisolone eye drops should never be self-administered for an unexplained red eye. Corticosteroid eye drops can cause severe, potentially blinding complications if used in conditions such as herpes simplex keratitis (dendritic ulcer), corneal infection, or undiagnosed glaucoma. Always see an ophthalmologist or optometrist first.
How do I correctly instil my eye drops?
Wash hands thoroughly. Tilt your head back or lie down. Gently pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Squeeze one drop into this pocket without touching the eye with the dropper tip. Close your eye gently for 1–2 minutes. If using multiple drops, wait at least 5–10 minutes between different drops.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or a qualified health provider. In New Zealand, medication availability and funding may vary — check with Pharmac or your pharmacist for current information.
Reviewed by a Registered Pharmacist NZ
References & Further Information
The following New Zealand and international resources were used to inform this page: