What Is Durezol? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

If you or a family member has been prescribed Durezol, you may have questions: What is it? Why did my doctor prescribe it? How do I use it correctly? This guide answers all of those questions in plain English, covering everything patients need to know about Durezol in 2026.

What Is Durezol?

Durezol is the brand name for difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion 0.05% — a prescription steroid eye drop. It is FDA-approved for two uses:

Post-surgical inflammation: To reduce pain and inflammation after eye surgery, particularly cataract surgery

Endogenous anterior uveitis: To treat inflammation in the front part of the eye caused by the immune system (uveitis)

Durezol is a corticosteroid — the same class of drug as hydrocortisone or prednisone — but it's specifically formulated for the eye. It comes as a milky, oil-and-water emulsion in a pink-capped opaque plastic bottle with a controlled drop tip.

Generic name: difluprednate | FDA approval year: 2008 | Available as generic: Yes

What Is Durezol Used For?

Durezol's two main FDA-approved indications are:

1. Post-Surgical Eye Inflammation

After cataract surgery or other types of eye surgery, the eye naturally becomes inflamed as part of the healing process. This inflammation can cause pain, redness, blurred vision, and, if not controlled, serious complications like cystoid macular edema (swelling in the center of your vision). Durezol suppresses this inflammation and reduces pain during the critical healing period.

2. Anterior Uveitis

Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea — the middle layer of the eye that includes the iris (the colored part), the ciliary body, and the choroid. "Anterior" uveitis affects the front portion of the eye, especially the iris. Symptoms include eye pain, redness, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision. Left untreated, uveitis can lead to glaucoma, cataracts, or vision loss. Durezol is prescribed to quickly bring the inflammation under control.

How Do You Use Durezol?

Durezol is given as an eye drop (one drop per dose). Here are the standard dosing schedules:

After eye surgery: 1 drop, 4 times a day, starting 24 hours after surgery. Continue for 2 weeks, then reduce to 2 times a day for 1 week, then taper as your doctor directs.

For anterior uveitis: 1 drop, 4 times a day, for 14 days, then taper based on your doctor's assessment.

How to put in the drops:

Wash your hands before and after

Tilt your head back and look up

Gently pull your lower eyelid down to form a small pocket

Hold the bottle upside down above your eye without touching it, and squeeze one drop into the pocket

Close your eye and press a finger gently against the inner corner of your eye for about 1 minute

If using other eye drops, wait at least 5 minutes between each

How Much Does Durezol Cost in 2026?

Durezol's cost varies significantly depending on whether you use brand or generic, insurance, or a discount program:

Brand Durezol without insurance: $250–$400 per 5 mL bottle

Generic difluprednate retail: ~$303 average

Generic with GoodRx coupon: As low as $44–$49 when available

With insurance (generic): $10–$50 copay

Is There a Durezol Shortage in 2026?

Yes. Generic difluprednate has been on the ASHP drug shortage list since April 2024, when manufacturer Exelan placed its product on long-term back order. Brand Durezol is generally available but expensive. If you're having trouble finding Durezol, you can use medfinder to locate pharmacies with it in stock near you.

Is Durezol a Controlled Substance?

No. Durezol (difluprednate) is not a controlled substance and has no DEA scheduling. It is a prescription-only medication, but it has no abuse potential and does not require the same restrictions as controlled substances such as opioids or stimulants.

Want to understand how Durezol works in the eye? Read our guide: How Does Durezol Work? Mechanism of Action Explained in Plain English.