Control of ocular inflammation after cataract extraction with rimexolone 1% ophthalmic suspension

Purpose: To assess the efficacy and safety of rimexolone 1% ophthalmic suspension in controlling intraocular inflammation after cataract extraction. Setting: Twelve independent investigational centers in the United States. Methods: This study comprised 197 patients who had cataract extraction. Postoperatively, patients were randomized to a 2 week regimen of rimexolone 1% ophthalmic suspension or a placebo. Efficacy was analyzed by monitoring total anterior chamber cells and flare, other parameters of inflammation, and treatment failures. Safety was evaluated by monitoring treatment-related adverse events and intraocular pressure (IOP). Results: Rimexolone 1% was clinically and statistically more effective in suppressing cell and flare than the placebo (P < .02). The overall discontinuation rate for treatment-related adverse events was 5.3% in the rimexolone group and 22.2% in the placebo group. There were no between-group differences in IOP. Conclusion: Rimexolone 1% ophthalmic suspension was safe and significantly more effective than a placebo in controlling intraocular inflammation after cataract extraction when used four times daily and continued for 2 weeks.