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

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.