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Patient Information Page for
Loteprednol Etabonate (Marketed as Alrex)
What is Alrex used for?
Alrex is used for the temporary relief of the itching and redness of the eye caused by seasonal allergies. Alrex should not be used to treat contact lens-related problems.
Who should not use Alrex?
You should not use Alrex if you have any of the following conditions:
- Eye infections caused by viruses, including herpes and chicken pox.
- Eye infections caused by mycobacterium or fungi.
- An allergic reaction to Alrex.
Special Warnings for Alrex:
- Long-term use of Alrex or other eye drops that contain steroids may result in glaucoma, and cataracts. If you already have glaucoma, tell your doctor.
- Long-term use of Alrex or other eye drops that contain steroids may lower your ability to fight infections and may increase your chance of getting an eye infection.
- Using steroid eye drops may make viral diseases of the eye, such as herpes simplex, worse and last longer.
- Using steroid eye drops after cataract surgery may delay healing time.
General Precautions with Alrex:
- You should contact your doctor if pain develops, or if redness or itching gets worse.
- Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not get better within two days. He/she may want to re-evaluate your condition.
- You should not use Alrex longer than 10 days without having the pressure in your eye checked by your doctor.
What should I tell my doctor or healthcare provider?
Tell your doctor or healthcare provider if you:
- wear contact lenses because you should not wear contact lenses if your eyes are red.
- wear contact lenses and your eyes are not red. You should wait at least 10 minutes after using Alrex before putting in your contact lenses because Alrex contains a preservative that may be absorbed by the lens.
What are some possible side effects of Alrex? (This is NOT a complete list of side effects reported with Alrex. Your doctor can discuss with you a more complete list of side effects.)
- Increased pressure within the eye (see special warnings)
- Blurring of vision
- Burning when putting drops in the eye
- Swelling or discharge around the eyelids
- Dry eyes
- Tearing
- Sensation of having an object in your eye
- Itching
- Redness
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Headache
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
For more detailed information about Alrex, ask your healthcare provider.
Link to Alrex's Approved Labeling [PDF  ]
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Date created: July 24, 2006 |
