Uveitis Treatment: Effective Options for Inflammation Control

When dealing with uveitis treatment, the medical approach to reduce inflammation inside the eye caused by uveitis. Also known as uveitis therapy, it often starts with corticosteroids, potent anti‑inflammatory drugs delivered as eye drops, periocular injections, or oral tablets, moves to NSAIDs, non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory agents that can be used topically or systemically to control mild to moderate swelling, and may involve immunosuppressants, medications that dampen the immune system to prevent chronic or recurrent attacks. These drug classes form the backbone of any uveitis treatment plan.

Key Medication Classes and How They Work

Corticosteroids are the go‑to for rapid inflammation control. Drugs like prednisolone acetate eye drops or oral prednisone can bring symptoms down within days. The downside is pressure rise in the eye and cataract formation if used long‑term, so doctors often taper the dose once the flare subsides. NSAIDs such as ketorolac or diclofenac eye drops provide a gentler alternative for patients who can’t tolerate steroids; they block prostaglandin production, easing pain and mild swelling without the steroid‑related risks.

When steroids and NSAIDs aren’t enough, immunosuppressants step in. Agents like methotrexate, mycophenolate mofetil, or the steroid‑sparing deflazacort (known commercially as Calcort) target the underlying immune response. They’re especially useful for autoimmune‑driven uveitis, such as that associated with ankylosing spondylitis or sarcoidosis. Biologic therapy—think adalimumab or infliximab—takes a more precise approach by blocking specific cytokines (e.g., TNF‑α) that fuel inflammation. Although biologics are expensive, they can keep the disease quiet for years when other drugs fail.

Choosing the right regimen depends on several factors: the location of inflammation (anterior, intermediate, posterior, or pan‑uveitis), the speed of symptom onset, and any underlying systemic disease. For an acute anterior uveitis, a short course of topical corticosteroids combined with a cycloplegic drop often suffices. In contrast, chronic posterior uveitis may require systemic steroids plus an immunosuppressant or biologic, along with regular imaging to monitor retinal health. Monitoring is crucial—eye pressure checks, cataract exams, and blood work for liver or kidney function keep side‑effects in check while the treatment does its job.

Beyond medicines, lifestyle tweaks help keep inflammation low. Protecting eyes from bright light, using UV‑blocking sunglasses, and avoiding smoking can reduce flare‑ups. Some clinicians also recommend omega‑3 fatty acid supplements or a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, though evidence is still emerging. The overall goal of uveitis treatment is to preserve vision, minimize medication toxicity, and address any systemic cause that might be driving the eye disease.

Below you’ll find a curated list of articles that dive deeper into each of these drug classes, compare specific products, and offer practical tips for safe use. Whether you’re starting a new regimen or looking for alternatives, the collection gives you the details you need to make an informed choice.