Xibrom

Generic Name: bromfenac (ophthalmic) (BROM fen ak)
Brand Names: Bromday, Xibrom

What is Xibrom?

Xibrom (bromfenac) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking the production of prostaglandin, a substance that causes inflammation (redness, swelling, irritation).

Xibrom is an eye drop used to treat eye pain and swelling in patients who have recently had surgery to remove cataracts. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription

Xibrom may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information about Xibrom

You should not use Xibrom if you are allergic to bromfenac.

Before using Xibrom, tell your doctor if you have asthma, diabetes, arthritis, dry eye syndrome, a bleeding disorder, if you have had more than one eye surgery recently, or if you have an allergy to sulfites, aspirin, or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

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Xibrom is usually given as 1 drop in each affected eye twice daily for 14 days, starting 24 hours after your surgery.

Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully. Do not use this medication for more than the number of days your doctor has recommended. Using a steroid eye drop too long can increase your risk of serious side effects that may damage your vision. Stop using Xibrom and call your doctor at once if you have any change in your vision, eye redness or bleeding, eye pain or swelling, severe eye discomfort, increased tears, increased sensitivity to light, feeling like something is in your eye, or slow healing after your eye surgery. Do not use this medication while wearing contact lenses.

Before using Xibrom

You should not use Xibrom if you are allergic to bromfenac.

To make sure you can safely use Xibrom, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• asthma or sulfite allergy;

• diabetes;

• rheumatoid arthritis;

• dry eye syndrome;

• an allergy to aspirin or other NSAIDs;

• a bleeding or blood-clotting disorder; or

• more than one eye surgery in a short period of time.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Xibrom will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication. It is not known whether bromfenac passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use Xibrom without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

See also: Xibrom pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)

How should I use Xibrom?

Use Xibrom exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Do not use this medication while wearing contact lenses.

Xibrom is usually given as 1 drop in each affected eye twice daily for 14 days. You will use the first dose 24 hours after your surgery.

Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully. Do not use this medication for more than the number of days your doctor has recommended. Using a steroid eye drop too long can increase your risk of serious side effects that may damage your vision. Wash your hands before using eye medication.

To use the Xibrom eye drops:

• Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the tip down. Look up and away from the dropper as you squeeze out a drop, then close your eye.

• Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed.

• Gently press your finger to the inside corner of the eye (near your nose) for about 1 minute to keep the liquid from draining into your tear duct.

• Wait at least 10 minutes before using any other eye drops that your doctor has prescribed.

Do not allow the tip of the dropper to touch any surface, including your 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. Call your doctor for a new prescription.

Store Xibrom at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of Xibrom is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

What should I avoid while using Xibrom?

This medication may cause blurred vision and may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert and able to see clearly. Do not use other eye medications during treatment with Xibrom unless your doctor tells you to.

Xibrom side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Xibrom: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using Xibrom and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• any change in your vision;

• slow healing after your eye surgery;

• eye redness or bleeding;

• eye pain or swelling, increased sensitivity to light;

• feeling like something is in your eye; or

• severe eye discomfort, increased tears, crusting or drainage.

Less serious Xibrom side effects may include:

• mild burning or stinging when you apply the eye drops;

• eye itching;

• headache; or

• seeing flashes of light or "floaters" in your vision.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

See also: Xibrom side effects (in more detail)

What other drugs will affect Xibrom?

Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use, especially:

• a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven); or

• an oral, nasal, inhaled, or injectable steroid medication.

There may be other drugs that can interact with Xibrom. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about Xibrom.