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Patient Information Page for
Loteprednol Etabonate (Marketed as Lotemax)
What is Lotemax used for?
Lotemax is used to treat certain inflammatory conditions of the eye that will respond to steroids, such as seasonal allergies. Lotemax is also used to treat inflammation after cataract surgery. Lotemax is not the preferred treatment for all inflammatory conditions of the eye.
Who should not use Lotemax?
You should not use Lotemax if you have any of the following conditions:
- Eye infections caused by viruses such as herpes, and the chicken pox virus.
- Eye infections caused by mycobacterium and fungi.
- An allergic reaction to Lotemax.
Special Warnings with Lotemax:
- Long-term use of Lotemax or other eye drops that contain steroids may result in glaucoma, which can cause damage to the optic nerve, problems with vision, and cataracts. If you already have glaucoma, tell your doctor.
- Long-term use of Lotemax 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 Lotemax:
- You should contact your doctor if pain develops, or if redness, itching, or inflammation gets worse.
- See 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 Lotemax longer than 10 days without having the pressure in your eye checked by your doctor.
- You should not wear soft contact lenses when using Lotemax because the product contains a preservative.
What are some possible side effects of Lotemax? (This is NOT a complete list of side effects reported with Lotemax. 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 from the eyes
- 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 Lotemax, ask your healthcare provider.
Link to Lotemax's Approved Labeling [PDF  ]
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Date created: July 24, 2006 |
