Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Loteprednol is indicated for the treatment of specific ocular conditions resulting from inflammation or injury, as well as for post-operative ocular therapy. Loteprednol exerts its therapeutic effects by mitigating the symptoms of inflammation, including edema, erythema, and pruritus. This medication belongs to the category of pharmaceuticals referred to as corticosteroids.
Uses and Dosage
When using this medication, avoid wearing contact lenses. Sterilize contact lenses according to the manufacturer’s directions, and consult your doctor before reintroducing them.
To apply the eye gel, begin by washing your hands. To prevent contamination, avoid contact between the bottle tip and your eye or any surface. Invert the bottle and shake it once to fill the tip with gel. Gently pull down the lower eyelid, forming a pouch. Administer the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Gently close the eye and move the eyeball in all directions to distribute the medication. Refrain from blinking or rubbing your eye.
If directed, repeat the process for the other eye.
If using other types of eye medication (such as drops, ointments, or different gels), wait at least 5 to 10 minutes before applying additional medications. Administer eye drops before ointments or gels to allow the drops to penetrate the eye.
Consistently use this medication to derive the maximum benefit. To facilitate consistent use, apply it at the same times each day.
Follow your doctor’s instructions, typically applying it 4 times a day. The dosage and treatment duration are determined by your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not increase the dose or frequency beyond what’s prescribed. Hastening the improvement is unlikely, and the risk of side effects may rise.
Continue using this medication for the entire prescribed duration. Do not discontinue it suddenly without consulting your doctor, as certain conditions may worsen. Your dosage may need to be gradually decreased.
If the product becomes contaminated (e.g., the gel changes color or develops particles), do not use it. Using contaminated eye medication can lead to infection, severe eye damage, or vision loss. Seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist for further guidance.
Inform your doctor if your condition doesn’t improve within a few days or if it worsens.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- burning feeling when the eye drops are instilled
- headache
- dry, red, or itchy eyes
- teary eyes
- runny nose
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- blurred vision or vision changes
- eye pain
- sensitivity to light
- eye discharge or crusting
- feeling that something is in the eye
Caution
- Prior to using loteprednol, disclose to your doctor or pharmacist any known allergies to the medication or other substances. This product may include inactive ingredients, which can trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
- Before using this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist of your medical history, particularly if you have had any eye infections, cataracts, open-angle glaucoma, severe nearsightedness (myopia), or diabetes.
- Following the administration of this medication, your vision may become momentarily blurred. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in any activity that necessitates clear vision until it is safe to do so.
- In the event of a new eye injury or infection or the requirement for eye surgery, consult your doctor on whether to continue using the current bottle of loteprednol eye drops or to initiate a new one.
- During pregnancy, utilize this medication only if it is clearly necessary. Consult with your doctor to weigh the potential risks and benefits.
- It is unknown whether the ingredients in this product are transmitted into breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Lotemax Gel is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Lotemax Gel gel:
- 0.5 %
FAQ
How long does it take for Lotemax to start working?
This medication should start to work right away.
How long should you use Lotemax Gel?
You should not use Lotemax longer than 10 days without having the pressure in your eye checked by your doctor. Long-term use of Lotemax or other eye medicines that contain steroids, may result in glaucoma or raised pressure in the eye, which can cause damage to the optic nerve, problems with vision, and cataracts.
Resources
- https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/6212/pil#gref
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a619025.html
- https://www.rxlist.com/lotemax-gel-drug.htm
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/lotemax-gel#google_vignette
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7319-1522/lotemax-ophthalmic-eye/loteprednol-gel-ophthalmic/details
- https://www.drugs.com/lotemax.html
