What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Lotemax (Loteprednol)
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Product Details
Description
Lotemax is a prescription gel that your eye doctor may prescribe to treat inflammation and pain after eye surgery.
After surgery, the immune system activates because the tissue around the operative site needs to heal. Inflammation and pain are part of the normal healing process, but too much can slow down healing.
Lotemox is a topical corticosteroid. It reduces the immune response, including swelling, redness, and scar formation. Lotemax readily enters the cells around the eye after being applied.
Fact Table
Formula
C24H31ClO7
License
US FDA
Bioavailability
None
Legal status
Rx-only
Chemical Name
Loteprednol
Elimination half-life
2.8 hrs
Dosage (Strength)
0.5%
Pregnancy
Consult Doctor
Brands
Lotemax
Protein binding
95%
PubChem CID
444025
MedlinePlus
a619025
ChEBI
31784
ATC code
S01BA14
DrugBank
DB14596
KEGG
D01689
Routes of administration
Eye drops
Directions
After surgery, apply one to two drops into the conjunctival sac four times daily starting the day after surgery. Usually, Lotemax is taken for two weeks, but this may vary depending on your doctor's instructions.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Lotemax is loteprednol.
Interactions
There are no known significant interactions.
However, Lotemax should not be given simultaneously as other eye medications. Separate their administration by at least 15 minutes.
Cautions
Using Lotemax for an extended period can increase the risk of increased intraocular pressure (IOP), which can result in glaucoma and damage to vision.
Tell your doctor if you have a history of cataracts.
Long-term steroid use can delay healing. The eyes should be examined each time the prescription is to be renewed.
Prolonged use of steroids can increase the risk of bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. Tell your doctor if you develop any increased redness, itching, or pain while taking Lotemax.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of this medication include:
- Anterior Chamber Inflammation
- Application Site Burning
- Application Site Pain
- Blurred Vision
- Chemosis
- Conjunctival Hyperemia
- Conjunctivitis
- Corneal Changes
- Corneal Edema
- Epiphora
- Erythema Of Eyelid
- Eye Discharge
- Eye Discomfort
- Eye Irritation
- Eye Pain
- Eye Pruritus
- Foreign Body Sensation Of Eye
- Headache
- Increased Intraocular Pressure
- Injected Sclera
- Keratoconjunctivitis
- Papilla
- Pharyngitis
- Photophobia
- Rhinitis
- Secondary Cataract
- Uveitis
- Visual Disturbance
- Xerophthalmia
References
Lotemax [package insert]. Tampa, FL: Bausch & Lomb Incorporated; 1998.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lotemax (Loteprednol)
What is Lotemax used for?
Lotemax is used to treat eye irritation, eye swelling, and eye pain following eye surgery.
How does Lotemax work?
Lotemax, being a corticosteroid medication, works by blocking the body's inflammatory response which helps reduce symptoms like pain, swelling, and redness in the eyes.
What are the forms in which Lotemax is available?
Lotemax is available in the form of eye drops, gel, and ointment.
How should Lotemax be administered?
Lotemax should be applied as eye drops, following the prescribed dosage by the doctor. For instance, 0.5% gel or suspension is generally advised to be used 1 to 2 drops, 4 times daily starting 24 hours after surgery for the first 2 weeks of the post-operative period.
What precautions should be taken before using Lotemax?
Before using Lotemax, inform your doctor if you have any allergies, especially to loteprednol, or if you have a fungal, TB, or viral infection of the eye.
What should be done in case of a missed dose?
If a dose is missed, use it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal schedule. Do not use 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.
What are the side effects of Lotemax?
Lotemax may cause eye pain or inflammation. If these conditions persist, consult with your doctor.
Can Lotemax affect eyesight?
Long-term use of Lotemax may raise the chance of cataracts or glaucoma. It's advised to have your eye pressure checked if you are on Lotemax for a long time.
Can I wear contact lenses while using Lotemax?
It's advised to take out contact lenses before using Lotemax. Consult with your doctor to know when lenses may be put back in after Lotemax is given.
Is there a generic version of Lotemax available?
Yes, generic loteprednol is available as an alternative to Lotemax.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 5467
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