Clobetasol Suspension Eases Cataract Inflammation

Phase 3 trials show clobetasol propionate ophthalmic suspension rapidly reduced inflammation and pain after cataract surgery

July 6, 2026
3 min

The Ophthalmologist

Overview

Clobetasol propionate ophthalmic suspension 0.05% demonstrated rapid reductions in postoperative inflammation and ocular pain after cataract surgery in pooled Phase 3 trial data. The treatment showed a safety profile comparable to placebo.

Background

Postoperative inflammation is a common complication following cataract surgery, often requiring corticosteroid treatment. Traditional topical corticosteroids can be challenging for patients, particularly the elderly, due to complex dosing regimens.

Data Highlights

Outcome	Clobetasol Group	Placebo Group
Complete anterior chamber cell clearance by POD 8	26.5%	6.8%
Complete absence of ocular pain by POD 4	71.6%	27.7%
Pain-free rates by POD 4	Exceeds 80%	N/A

Key Findings

Clobetasol propionate administered BID for 14 days improved ocular pain and inflammation.
26.5% of patients achieved complete anterior chamber cell clearance by POD 8.
71.6% of patients reported complete absence of ocular pain by POD 4.
No clinically meaningful IOP increases were observed during the study.
The nanoparticle formulation does not require shaking and is easier to use for elderly patients.

Clinical Implications

The findings indicate that clobetasol propionate may be an option for managing inflammation without significant risk of IOP elevation.

Conclusion

Clobetasol propionate ophthalmic suspension 0.05% presents a new treatment for controlling postoperative inflammation and pain after cataract surgery.