Loteprednol Etabonate (Ophthalmic Gel)

Indications

Loteprednol Gel is indicated for the treatment of post-operative inflammation and pain following ocular surgery. It is also effective in steroid responsive inflammatory conditions of the palpebral and bulbar conjunctiva, cornea and anterior segment of eyeball such as allergic conjunctivitis, acne rosacea, superficial punctate keratitis, herpes zoster keratitis, iritis & cyclitis.

Pharmacology

Loteprednol is a corticosteroid which is thought to act by the induction of phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins, which control the biosynthesis of potent mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes by inhibiting the release of their common precursor arachidonic acid.

Contraindications

It is contraindicated in most viral diseases of the cornea and conjunctiva. It is also contraindicated in individuals with known or suspected hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients of this preparation and to other corticosteroids.

Side Effects

Glaucoma with optic nerve damage, visual acuity and field defects; cataract formation; secondary ocular infection following suppression of host response.

Pregnancy And Lactation

No clinical data available for use in pregnancy. It is not known whether Loteprednol Etabonate passes into breast milk.

Precautions And Warnings

  • For ophthalmic use only.
  • If this product is used for 10 days or longer, intraocular pressure should be monitored.
  • Fungal infections of the cornea are particularly prone to develop coincidentally with long-term use of steroid topically.
  • Prolonged use of corticosteroids may result in glaucoma with damage to the optic nerve, defects in visual acuity and visual field, and in posterior subcapsular cataract formation.
  • Use of a corticosteroid medication in the treatment of patients with a history of herpes simplex requires great caution.

Therapeutic Class

Ophthalmic Steroid preparations.

Use in special populations

Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

Storage Conditions

Protect from light. Store in cool & dry place. Keep out of the reach of children.

Available Brand Names