Topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for corneal abrasions in children.

QUESTION: Corneal abrasion from minor injury to the eye is common in both adults and children. Some of my colleagues prescribe topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for analgesia. How safe is this practice? ANSWER: Topical ophthalmic NSAIDs are a short-term effective treatment of the pain associated with corneal abrasions in children. Rare but serious complications have been reported in adult case-study series. Children with corneal abrasions should have follow-up appointments within 24 to 48 hours to assess healing, complications, and side effects of treatment, particularly if they are using topical NSAIDs.