To compare the efficacy of topical betamethasone 0.1%, with placebo in the prevention of postoperative pain and discomfort of photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).

In this randomized clinical trial, adults undergoing bilateral PRK were assigned to two groups. The first received topical betamethasone 0.1%, 3 hours before surgery, randomly in either the right or left eye, and the second was the other eye received artificial tear (as the placebo). The primary outcome was ocular pain assessed by 0-10 point verbal numerical rating scale and discomfort including itching, foreign body sensation, tearing and photophobia which were questioned in 4 degrees.

overall 60 subjects remained in each group. In betamethasone group, the pain scores were significantly lower in the pretreated eye in first post-operation day, but in second post operation day no significant difference existed. Moreover, in the first post-operation day, the intensity of all ocular discomfort items was statistically lower in the pretreated eyes; whereas, in the second day, such difference was only observed about foreign body sensation and itching and tearing.

Topical betamethasone 0.1%, instilled at a dose of one drop 3hours before the operation would be beneficial in the short-term prevention of post-PRK pain and discomforts.