FML Forte vs Prednisolone: Key Differences and What You Need to Know

When it comes to treating eye inflammation, FML Forte, a brand-name corticosteroid eye drop containing fluorometholone. Also known as fluorometholone, it's often prescribed for allergic conjunctivitis, uveitis, and other inflammatory eye conditions. Many patients and doctors also turn to prednisolone, a more widely used corticosteroid available as eye drops or oral tablets. Also known as prednisolone acetate in ophthalmic form, it’s a go-to for moderate to severe eye inflammation. Both are steroids, but they’re not interchangeable—and knowing the difference can make a real impact on your treatment outcome.

FML Forte is considered a mid-potency steroid, designed to reduce inflammation without overly suppressing the eye’s natural healing response. That makes it a common choice for long-term use, especially when the goal is to avoid side effects like increased eye pressure or cataract formation. Prednisolone, on the other hand, is stronger. It packs a bigger punch for sudden flare-ups, like after eye surgery or during severe allergic reactions. But that strength comes with trade-offs: higher risk of intraocular pressure spikes, especially if used for more than a few weeks. Studies show that prednisolone can raise eye pressure in up to 30% of users over time, while FML Forte’s impact is much lower—closer to 5-10% in most cases.

Who gets which? If you’re dealing with mild seasonal allergies or a slow-healing corneal issue, FML Forte is often the safer first step. If you’ve got active uveitis or recent trauma, your doctor might start you on prednisolone to get control fast, then switch you down to FML Forte once things settle. It’s not about which is "better," it’s about which fits your condition and risk profile. Neither should be used without medical supervision—even eye drops can cause serious problems if misused.

You’ll find posts here that dig into how corticosteroids like these affect your eyes long-term, what side effects to watch for, and how they stack up against other treatments. Whether you’re managing chronic inflammation or just got a new prescription, the articles below give you the real-world details you need—no fluff, no marketing, just what works and what to avoid.