Lotemax

Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent.

The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who uses Lotemax (Loteprednol). If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of Lotemax (Loteprednol) with your doctor.

The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people using Lotemax (Loteprednol). Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.

Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.

• eye swelling or discharge
• feeling like there is something in the eye
• headache
• increased pressure within the eye
• itching of the eye or eyelid
• painful, dry, or sticky eyes
• redness of the eye or eyelid
• runny nose
• sensitivity of eyes to sunlight
• tearing
• temporary vision changes (e.g., blurred vision)

Although most of the side effects listed below don't happen very often, they could lead to serious problems if you do not seek medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

• loss of vision
• persistent vision problems
• rash
• swelling of the face
• symptoms of an eye infection (eye redness, discharge, swelling)
• worsening eye redness or itching

Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking Lotemax (Loteprednol).

Lotemax (Loteprednol) ophthalmic gel contains 0.5% w/v Lotemax (Loteprednol) etabonate. Nonmedicinal ingredients: benzalkonium chloride, boric acid, edetate disodium dihydrate, glycerin, polycarbophil, propylene glycol, sodium chloride, tyloxapol, water for injection, and sodium hydroxide to adjust to a pH of between 6 and 7.

Do not use Lotemax (Loteprednol) if you:

• are allergic to Lotemax (Loteprednol) or any ingredients of Lotemax (Loteprednol)
• are allergic to other corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone, Prednisolone, Dexamethasone)
• have or may have a bacterial, fungal, or viral eye infection (e.g., herpes simples, varicella)

Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the Nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them. Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:

• stop taking one of the medications,
• change one of the medications to another,
• change how you are taking one or both of the medications, or
• leave everything as is.

An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Lotemax (Loteprednol).

Blurred vision: Lotemax (Loteprednol) may cause your vision to blur temporarily. Do not drive or operate machinery until your vision is clear. If you experience persistent vision changes, contact your doctor.

Contact lenses: Do not wear contact lenses while you are using Lotemax (Loteprednol). Some formulations of Lotemax (Loteprednol) contain the preservative benzalkonium chloride which can discolour soft contact lenses.

Delayed wound healing: The use of corticosteroids such as Lotemax (Loteprednol) may delay wound healing. Your doctor will check your eye(s) to ensure proper healing after surgery.

Eye Infections: Lotemax (Loteprednol) can increase the chances of getting an eye infection and should not be used if you have an eye infection (see "Who should not use Lotemax (Loteprednol)?"). If you develop an eye infection, or new or worsening symptoms, see your doctor as soon as possible.

Glaucoma or increased pressure within the eye: If you have glaucoma or increased pressure within the eye, discuss with your doctor how Lotemax (Loteprednol) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Lotemax (Loteprednol), and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Length of treatment: Lotemax (Loteprednol) is used for short-term treatment, usually for no longer than 2 weeks. Prolonged use of Lotemax (Loteprednol) may cause Cataracts or glaucoma. If Lotemax (Loteprednol) is used for 10 days or longer, your doctor will monitor the pressure inside your eye regularly.

If you experience any persistent vision problems while using Lotemax (Loteprednol), contact your doctor immediately. If you don't notice an improvement within 2 days of starting treatment, see your doctor.

Pregnancy: Lotemax (Loteprednol) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while using Lotemax (Loteprednol), contact your doctor immediately.

Breast-feeding: It is not known if Lotemax (Loteprednol) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are using Lotemax (Loteprednol), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.

Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Lotemax (Loteprednol) have not been established for children.