ALREX (Loteprednol)

What is this medication?

Loteprednol (Ophthalmic), Alrex/Lotemax/Inveltys
Ophthalmic Corticosteroid

Loteprednol (Ophthalmic) is indicated for ophthalmic inflammatory conditions, postoperative inflammation/pain, and seasonal conjunctivitis depending on the formulation used.

How does this medication work?

Loteprednol (Ophthalmic) reduces leukocyte migration to the affected area and reverses the dilation and blood vessel permeability from the inflammatory response resulting in decreased access of cells to the site.  It also reduces lymphatic flow to the area which reduces immune activity and prevents scar formation.  Loteprednol is highly lipid soluble and penetrates cells easily to produce lipocortins which are proteins that modulate the activity of prostaglandins and leukotrienes.

How should I take this medication?

Apply to affected eye(s) every 6-12 hours depending on dosage form and condition it is used for.

How to Take: Follow instructions provided by physician/pharmacy label, use consistently at same times each day unless otherwise directed, store at room temperature.  Shake suspension before use and apply light pressure to lacrimal sac (inside corner of eye near nose) for 60 seconds after application to prevent drainage of the drop from eye.  Ointment should be applied in pocket between lower eyelid and eyeball then you should look downwards before closing eye to wipe ointment across eye surface.  Gel should be inverted and shaken once prior to application.

You Need to Avoid: Remove contact lenses before applying and wait at least 15 minutes after administration before reinserting.  If using for seasonal allergies do not insert contact lenses if eyes are red.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Before starting Loteprednol (Ophthalmic) make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take, if you have ocular herpes simplex, if you are pregnant, or breastfeeding.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of this medicine, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use two doses at one time.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times. Store at cool room temperature away from moisture , heat, and direct light. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

Do not freeze.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

>10%:

Central nervous system: Foreign body sensation of eye (2% to 15%), headache (2% to <15%)

Endocrine & metabolic: Chemosis (5% to 15%)

Local: Application site burning (5% to 15%)

Ophthalmic: Anterior chamber inflammation (2% to 25%), blurred vision (5% to 15%), epiphora (5% to 15%), eye discharge (5% to 15%), eye pruritus (5% to 15%), injected sclera (5% to 15%), photophobia (5% to 15%), visual disturbance (5% to 15%), xerophthalmia (5% to 15%)

Respiratory: Pharyngitis (<15%), rhinitis (<15%)