Yellox (Bromfenac) Eye Drops
NSAID eye drops for reducing inflammation after cataract surgery
Yellox is a prescription eye drop containing bromfenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to reduce ocular inflammation following cataract surgery in adults. It is applied as one drop to the affected eye(s) twice daily for up to two weeks, starting the day after surgery. Yellox works by blocking the cyclooxygenase enzymes that produce prostaglandins, key mediators of inflammation and pain in the eye.
Quick Facts
Key Takeaways
- Yellox (bromfenac 0.9 mg/ml) is a topical NSAID eye drop specifically approved for treating postoperative ocular inflammation after cataract surgery in adults.
- Apply one drop to the affected eye(s) twice daily (morning and evening) for two weeks, starting the day after surgery. Do not exceed the recommended 2-week duration.
- Do not use Yellox if you have a history of asthma, skin allergy, or severe nasal inflammation triggered by other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or diclofenac.
- Contact lens use is not recommended during treatment. The preservative benzalkonium chloride can be absorbed by soft lenses and cause discoloration.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience decreased or blurred vision in the week after stopping treatment, as this may indicate a serious complication.
What Is Yellox and What Is It Used For?
Yellox is a topical ophthalmic solution containing bromfenac as the active ingredient. Bromfenac belongs to a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These medications work by blocking cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which are responsible for producing prostaglandins — chemical messengers that play a central role in triggering inflammation, pain, and swelling in the body.
When applied directly to the eye, bromfenac inhibits the production of prostaglandins within ocular tissues, effectively reducing the inflammatory response that occurs as a natural consequence of cataract surgery. Cataract surgery, also known as phacoemulsification, involves removing the clouded lens of the eye and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Although the procedure is one of the most commonly performed surgeries worldwide, with high success rates, some degree of postoperative inflammation is expected.
Uncontrolled inflammation after cataract surgery can lead to complications such as cystoid macular edema (CME), posterior synechiae (adhesions between the iris and lens), and increased intraocular pressure. Yellox is specifically designed to manage this postoperative inflammation and help ensure optimal visual outcomes. Studies have demonstrated that topical NSAIDs like bromfenac are effective at reducing anterior chamber inflammation and preventing CME following cataract surgery.
Yellox is approved for use in adults only. It is not intended for treating other types of eye inflammation, infections, or chronic conditions. The medication is available as a clear, yellow solution in a 5 ml plastic dropper bottle. Each milliliter of the solution contains 0.9 mg of bromfenac (as bromfenac sodium sesquihydrate), and each drop delivers approximately 33 micrograms of bromfenac to the eye.
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) first approved Yellox for the European market, and it has been authorized for use in multiple countries worldwide. Bromfenac is also available under other brand names in different markets, though the formulation and concentration may vary. All prescribing and use should follow local regulatory guidelines and the specific product information for Yellox.
What Should You Know Before Using Yellox?
Contraindications
You must not use Yellox if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to bromfenac or to any of the other ingredients in the formulation. These include boric acid, borax, anhydrous sodium sulfite (E221), benzalkonium chloride, tyloxapol, povidone (K30), disodium edetate, water for injections, and sodium hydroxide. An allergic reaction to any of these components could manifest as eye redness, increased irritation, swelling, or systemic symptoms.
Yellox is also contraindicated if you have previously experienced asthma, skin allergies (urticaria), or severe nasal inflammation (rhinitis) when using other NSAIDs. This cross-sensitivity, sometimes referred to as the “aspirin triad” or NSAID-exacerbated respiratory disease, can cause serious and potentially life-threatening bronchospasm. Common NSAIDs that may trigger this reaction include acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), ibuprofen, ketoprofen, and diclofenac. If you have a history of such reactions, inform your doctor before starting any NSAID treatment, including Yellox.
Warnings and Precautions
Before using Yellox, speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following conditions apply to you:
- Concurrent use of topical corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone eye drops): Using Yellox alongside corticosteroid eye drops may increase the risk of adverse corneal events, including delayed wound healing and thinning of the cornea. Your ophthalmologist will carefully weigh the benefits and risks of concurrent therapy.
- Bleeding disorders (e.g., hemophilia) or if you are taking medications that prolong bleeding time, such as warfarin, clopidogrel, or aspirin. NSAIDs can inhibit platelet aggregation and may increase the risk of ocular bleeding.
- Eye problems including dry eye syndrome, corneal surface disorders, or a history of corneal erosion. Topical NSAIDs have been associated with corneal complications, including epithelial breakdown, thinning, erosion, ulceration, and in rare cases perforation. These events can occur without warning and may be sight-threatening.
- Diabetes mellitus: Patients with diabetes may have compromised corneal integrity and are at increased risk for corneal complications when using topical NSAIDs.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Patients with connective tissue disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis may be more susceptible to corneal adverse events during topical NSAID use.
- Repeated eye surgeries within a short period: Multiple ocular procedures increase the risk of corneal complications, and caution should be exercised when using Yellox in this setting.
Contact lens use is not recommended after cataract surgery. Do not wear contact lenses while using Yellox. The preservative benzalkonium chloride can be absorbed by soft contact lenses and may cause discoloration. If contact lens use is necessary, remove lenses before applying Yellox and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to have a baby, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Yellox. The use of Yellox is particularly important to discuss with your healthcare provider due to the potential effects of NSAIDs on pregnancy outcomes.
Yellox must not be used during the last three months (third trimester) of pregnancy. Like all NSAIDs, bromfenac may cause premature closure of the ductus arteriosus in the fetus, inhibition of uterine contractions, and potential renal dysfunction in the unborn baby. During the first and second trimesters, your doctor may prescribe Yellox if the expected benefit to the mother clearly outweighs the potential risk to the fetus.
Yellox may be used by breastfeeding mothers. Given the low systemic absorption from ophthalmic administration, the amount of bromfenac that reaches breast milk is expected to be negligible. Yellox has no clinically significant impact on fertility.
Children and Adolescents
Yellox should not be used in children and adolescents. Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients under 18 years of age. Cataract surgery in pediatric patients requires specialized postoperative protocols, and alternative anti-inflammatory treatments should be discussed with a pediatric ophthalmologist.
Driving and Using Machines
You may experience temporary blurred vision shortly after applying Yellox eye drops. If this occurs, do not drive or operate machinery until your vision clears. This transient visual disturbance typically resolves within minutes of application. If blurred vision persists, consult your ophthalmologist.
How Does Yellox Interact with Other Drugs?
Drug interactions with Yellox are primarily related to its NSAID mechanism of action. Although systemic absorption from ophthalmic use is relatively low, the potential for local interactions within the eye and minor systemic effects should be considered. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications you are currently taking, have recently taken, or might take.
If you are using other eye drops alongside Yellox, allow at least five minutes between applications. This interval ensures that the first medication is adequately absorbed and not washed out by the subsequent drop. Apply Yellox first if possible, and always follow your ophthalmologist’s specific instructions regarding the order and timing of multiple eye medications.
| Interacting Drug | Interaction Type | Clinical Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Topical corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone, prednisolone eye drops) | Increased risk of corneal adverse events | Concurrent use may impair corneal healing and increase the risk of corneal thinning. Monitor closely. |
| Warfarin | Potential increase in bleeding tendency | NSAIDs may inhibit platelet function. Increased risk of intraocular or periocular hemorrhage. INR monitoring recommended. |
| Clopidogrel | Additive antiplatelet effect | Combined use may increase risk of ocular bleeding during the postoperative period. Inform your surgeon. |
| Acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin) | Additive NSAID effect | Low-dose aspirin is generally safe. High-dose aspirin may increase bleeding risk. Discuss with your doctor. |
| Other topical NSAIDs (e.g., ketorolac, diclofenac eye drops) | Duplicative therapy | Do not combine with other NSAID eye drops. No additional benefit and increased risk of corneal toxicity. |
If you use more than one type of eye drop, wait at least 5 minutes between each application. This ensures proper absorption of each medication and prevents one drop from diluting or washing away another.
What Is the Correct Dosage of Yellox?
Always use Yellox exactly as your doctor has told you. If you are unsure about any aspect of the dosing instructions, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not alter the dose or duration of treatment without medical guidance.
Adults
Standard Dosage
Dose: One drop of Yellox in the affected eye(s)
Frequency: Twice daily (morning and evening)
Start: The day after cataract surgery
Duration: 2 weeks (14 days). Do not use for longer than 2 weeks.
How to Apply Yellox Eye Drops
Yellox is for ophthalmic use only — it should only be applied into the eye. Follow these step-by-step instructions for proper administration:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the eye drop bottle.
- Sit or stand in a comfortable, stable position. You may find it helpful to use a mirror.
- Unscrew the bottle cap and hold the bottle upside down between your thumb and fingers.
- Tilt your head back and look up at the ceiling.
- Gently pull down your lower eyelid with a clean finger to create a small pocket.
- Position the dropper tip close to your eye, but do not touch your eye, eyelid, surrounding areas, or any other surface with the dropper tip to prevent contamination.
- Squeeze the bottle gently to release one drop into the lower eyelid pocket.
- Close your eye gently and press lightly on the inner corner of the eye (near the nose) with your finger for about one minute. This helps prevent the medication from draining into the tear duct and being absorbed systemically.
- Replace the cap tightly on the bottle immediately after use.
Children
Yellox is not recommended for use in children and adolescents under 18 years of age. Safety and efficacy in this population have not been established.
Elderly
No dose adjustment is required for elderly patients. The standard adult dosing regimen of one drop twice daily applies. However, elderly patients may have a higher prevalence of dry eye disease or other corneal conditions, so additional monitoring may be warranted.
Missed Dose
If you forget to use Yellox at the scheduled time, apply a single drop as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a forgotten application.
Overdose
If you accidentally apply too many drops, rinse the eye with lukewarm clean water. Do not apply more drops until your next scheduled dose. If you accidentally swallow Yellox, drink a glass of water or another fluid to dilute the medication. The small volume in the bottle makes serious systemic toxicity from accidental ingestion unlikely, but contact your doctor or poison control center if you have concerns.
Do not stop using Yellox without consulting your doctor, even if you feel your eye has recovered. In rare cases, stopping treatment abruptly can cause a rebound inflammatory reaction, including swelling of the retina (macular edema) related to the cataract surgery. Always complete the full prescribed course of treatment.
What Are the Side Effects of Yellox?
Like all medicines, Yellox can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Most side effects are mild and related to the local application in the eye. The following side effects have been reported during clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance.
If you experience decreased vision or blurred vision in the week after treatment has ended, contact your doctor immediately. This may indicate a serious complication such as cystoid macular edema or corneal damage that requires prompt evaluation.
Uncommon Side Effects
- Foreign body sensation in the eye
- Eye redness and inflammation
- Damage and inflammation of the eye surface (corneal erosion, keratitis)
- Eye discharge
- Itching, irritation, or pain in the eye
- Swelling or bleeding of the eyelid
- Decreased vision due to inflammation
- Floaters (spots or threads moving in the visual field)
- Decreased or blurred vision, which may indicate retinal hemorrhage or damage
- Eye discomfort
- Photophobia (sensitivity to light)
- Facial swelling
- Cough
- Nosebleed or runny nose
Rare Side Effects
- Corneal damage (erosion, perforation in severe cases)
- Ocular surface redness
- Asthma (particularly in patients with NSAID sensitivity)
Topical NSAIDs, including bromfenac, have been associated with corneal adverse events ranging from mild epithelial defects to more serious complications including corneal melting and perforation. These serious events are rare but more likely in patients with risk factors such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, repeated surgeries, or concurrent use of topical corticosteroids. Patients with pre-existing dry eye disease or corneal surface disorders may also be at elevated risk.
If you notice any side effects not listed here, or if any of the listed side effects become severe or persistent, contact your doctor or pharmacist. Reporting suspected adverse reactions after the medicine has been authorized is important — it allows continued monitoring of the benefit-risk balance. Healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to report adverse reactions through their national pharmacovigilance system.
How Should You Store Yellox?
Proper storage of Yellox is essential to maintain the sterility and effectiveness of the solution. Follow these storage guidelines carefully:
- Temperature: Store at or below 25°C (77°F). Do not freeze.
- After opening: Discard the bottle 4 weeks after first opening, even if solution remains. This is critical to prevent microbial contamination, which could lead to eye infections. Note the date of opening on the carton label in the space provided.
- Bottle closure: Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Replace the cap immediately after each application.
- Expiry date: Do not use Yellox after the expiry date printed on the bottle and carton after “EXP.” The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.
- Child safety: Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
- Disposal: Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to properly dispose of medicines you no longer use. These measures help protect the environment.
What Does Yellox Contain?
Understanding the full composition of Yellox is important, particularly for patients with known sensitivities to specific excipients.
Active Ingredient
Each milliliter of Yellox solution contains 0.9 mg of bromfenac (as bromfenac sodium sesquihydrate). Each drop delivers approximately 33 micrograms of bromfenac.
Excipients (Inactive Ingredients)
- Boric acid — buffering agent
- Borax — buffering agent
- Anhydrous sodium sulfite (E221) — antioxidant
- Benzalkonium chloride — preservative (0.05 mg/ml, approximately 0.00185 mg per drop)
- Tyloxapol — surfactant
- Povidone (K30) — viscosity enhancer
- Disodium edetate — chelating agent
- Water for injections — vehicle
- Sodium hydroxide — pH adjuster (to maintain appropriate acidity)
Appearance and Packaging
Yellox is a clear, yellow solution. It is supplied in a pack containing one 5 ml plastic dropper bottle with a screw cap. The dropper is designed to deliver consistent drop size for accurate dosing.
Benzalkonium chloride is a commonly used preservative in ophthalmic preparations. While generally well tolerated, it can cause irritation in sensitive individuals, especially those with dry eyes or corneal problems. It can also be absorbed by soft contact lenses, potentially causing discoloration. If you experience stinging, irritation, or pain after application, contact your doctor.
Marketing Authorization Holder
Bausch Health Ireland Limited, 3013 Lake Drive, Citywest Business Campus, Dublin 24, D24PPT3, Ireland.
Manufacturer
Dr. Gerhard Mann Chem.-pharm. Fabrik GmbH, Brunsbütteler Damm 165/173, 13581 Berlin, Germany.
Frequently Asked Questions About Yellox
Yellox (bromfenac) is a prescription eye drop used to reduce inflammation in the eye following cataract surgery in adults. It belongs to the NSAID class and works by blocking prostaglandin production that causes ocular inflammation and pain. It is not used for treating eye infections, chronic eye conditions, or inflammation from causes other than cataract surgery.
Yellox should be used for exactly 2 weeks (14 days) following cataract surgery. Treatment starts the day after surgery, with one drop in the affected eye(s) twice daily (morning and evening). Do not use Yellox for longer than 2 weeks unless specifically directed by your ophthalmologist, as prolonged use of topical NSAIDs can increase the risk of corneal complications.
Contact lens use is not recommended after cataract surgery, and therefore you should not wear contact lenses while using Yellox. The preservative benzalkonium chloride in Yellox can be absorbed by soft contact lenses and may cause discoloration. If contact lens use is unavoidable in special circumstances, remove your lenses before applying the eye drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
Yellox is generally well tolerated. Uncommon side effects (affecting up to 1 in 100 people) include foreign body sensation in the eye, redness, corneal irritation, eye discharge, itching, pain, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. Rare side effects (up to 1 in 1,000 people) include corneal damage, eye redness, and asthma. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience decreased or blurred vision in the week after stopping treatment.
Yellox should not be used during the last three months (third trimester) of pregnancy, as all NSAIDs may affect fetal development and uterine function. During the first and second trimesters, your doctor may prescribe Yellox if the expected benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the baby. Yellox can be used by breastfeeding mothers and has no significant impact on fertility. Always discuss pregnancy plans with your doctor before starting treatment.
Store Yellox at or below 25°C (77°F). Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Importantly, discard the bottle 4 weeks after first opening to prevent microbial contamination, even if solution remains. Write the date of opening on the carton. Keep out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
References
- European Medicines Agency (EMA). Yellox (bromfenac) — Summary of Product Characteristics. Available at: EMA EPAR — Yellox. Accessed January 2026.
- Miyanaga M, Miyai T, Nejima R, et al. Effect of bromfenac ophthalmic solution on ocular inflammation following cataract surgery. Acta Ophthalmologica. 2009;87(3):300-305. doi:10.1111/j.1755-3768.2008.01433.x
- American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). Preferred Practice Pattern: Cataract in the Adult Eye. 2021. Available at: AAO PPP — Cataract.
- Kessel L, Tendal B, Jørgensen KJ, et al. Post-cataract prevention of inflammation and macular edema by steroid and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory eye drops: a systematic review. Ophthalmology. 2014;121(10):1915-1924. doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2014.04.035
- World Health Organization (WHO). WHO Model List of Essential Medicines — 23rd List (2023). Geneva: WHO; 2023.
- Flach AJ. Topical nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs in ophthalmology. International Ophthalmology Clinics. 2002;42(1):1-11.
- British National Formulary (BNF). Bromfenac. NICE Evidence Services. Available at: BNF Online. Accessed January 2026.
About Our Medical Editorial Team
This article was written by the iMedic Medical Editorial Team, a group of licensed specialist physicians with expertise in ophthalmology, clinical pharmacology, and evidence-based medicine. All content is reviewed according to international medical guidelines from the WHO, EMA, AAO, and the BNF.
Our editorial process follows the GRADE evidence framework, ensuring that all medical claims are supported by the highest available level of evidence. This content undergoes regular review to incorporate the latest clinical research and guideline updates. No pharmaceutical company sponsorship or commercial funding influences our editorial content.