Indications for Esflurbiprofen Use
FDA-Approved Indication
Esflurbiprofen (flurbiprofen sodium ophthalmic solution 0.03%) is indicated solely for the inhibition of intraoperative miosis during ocular surgery. 1
This is the only FDA-approved indication for esflurbiprofen in its ophthalmic formulation. 1
Important Clarification on Systemic Flurbiprofen
The evidence base refers primarily to systemic flurbiprofen (oral formulation), not esflurbiprofen ophthalmic solution. These are distinct formulations with different indications:
Systemic Flurbiprofen Indications (Not Esflurbiprofen)
Oral flurbiprofen has been studied and used for:
Rheumatoid arthritis: Flurbiprofen 150-300 mg daily shows comparable efficacy to indomethacin 75-150 mg and therapeutic doses of aspirin (3-4 g), with generally fewer side effects than aspirin 2
Ankylosing spondylitis: Flurbiprofen 150-200 mg daily demonstrates comparable effectiveness to phenylbutazone 300-400 mg daily for pain relief and joint tenderness 3, with significant improvements maintained for up to 6 months 4
Psoriatic arthropathy: Significant pain improvements documented for up to 12 months of treatment 4
Degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis): Flurbiprofen 150-300 mg shows comparable efficacy to indomethacin 75-150 mg 2
Other articular conditions: Demonstrated efficacy in miscellaneous rheumatological disorders with sustained improvement over 12 months 4
Dosing for Systemic Flurbiprofen (Oral)
The therapeutic range for oral flurbiprofen is 150-400 mg daily, with most rheumatological conditions responding to 150-300 mg daily. 4, 5
Critical Distinction
Do not confuse esflurbiprofen ophthalmic solution with systemic oral flurbiprofen. The ophthalmic formulation is exclusively for preventing pupillary constriction during eye surgery and has no role in treating inflammatory arthritides or pain conditions. 1