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.
About Dr. Conor Sheehy (Page Author)
Dr. Sheehy (BSc Molecular Biology, PharmD) works a clinical pharmacist specializing in cardiology, oncology, and ambulatory care. He’s a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist (BCPS), and his experience working one-on-one with patients to fine tune their medication and therapy plans for optimal results makes him a valuable subject matter expert for our pharmacy. Read More....
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