Loteprednol Etabonate Suspension Eye Drops (Lotemax) is a glucocorticoid ophthalmic preparation, mainly used for the treatment of ocular inflammatory diseases. As a topically administered corticosteroid, it can effectively reduce ocular inflammatory responses, but at the same time, strict adherence to medication guidelines is required to avoid potential adverse reactions.

Precautions for Administration of Loteprednol Etabonate Suspension Eye Drops (Lotemax)

Indications

Treatment of inflammation in the anterior segment tissues of the eye (such as palpebral conjunctiva, bulbar conjunctiva, and cornea) that are sensitive to corticosteroids.

Treatment and prevention of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis.

Control of post-cataract surgery inflammation.

Contraindications

Patients with hypersensitivity to loteprednol or any component in the preparation.

Most viral infections of the cornea and conjunctiva (e.g., herpetic keratitis).

Ocular mycobacterial infections.

Ocular fungal infections.

Untreated suppurative ocular infections.

Usage Method

Shake the suspension well before use.

Avoid contact between the dropper tip and any surface to prevent contamination.

After instilling the drops, gently press the lacrimal sac area for 2-3 minutes to reduce systemic absorption.

Combined Medication: If other eye medications are used simultaneously, allow an interval of at least 5 minutes between administrations.

Contact Lenses: Avoid wearing soft contact lenses during the medication period.

Increased Intraocular Pressure

The incidence rate is approximately 2-5%, mostly occurring 2-6 weeks after the start of medication.

Monitoring Frequency: After the baseline examination, recheck intraocular pressure 2-4 weeks after starting medication.

High-Risk Populations: Patients with glaucoma, diabetes, and high myopia.

Management Measures: Reduce the dose or discontinue the medication if intraocular pressure increases significantly.

Corneal Issues

Corneal thinning and perforation (especially in patients with a history of ocular herpes or eye surgery).

Secondary ocular infections (bacterial, fungal, or viral).

Delayed corneal wound healing.

Systemic Absorption

Children are more prone to systemic adverse reactions.

Long-term use of high doses may inhibit the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.

The lacrimal sac compression method is recommended to reduce systemic absorption.

Treatment Monitoring for Loteprednol Etabonate Suspension Eye Drops (Lotemax)

Intraocular Pressure Monitoring

Baseline examination must include intraocular pressure measurement.

Recheck intraocular pressure 2-4 weeks after starting medication.

For long-term users, monitor at least once every 2-3 months.

Visual Acuity Examination: Regularly assess changes in visual acuity.

Slit Lamp Examination: Evaluate corneal integrity, anterior chamber reaction, etc.

Infection Signs: Monitor for symptoms of potential secondary infections.

Special Monitoring Scenarios

Postoperative Patients: Closely monitor the wound healing process.

Pediatric Patients: Strengthen monitoring for systemic adverse reactions.

Long-Term Users: Regularly assess the function of the HPA axis.

Diabetic Patients: More frequent intraocular pressure monitoring.