Lotemax Opthalmic Ointment (Loteprednol)

Do’s

• Wash your hands thoroughly before using the ointment.
• Apply the ointment exactly as directed by your healthcare provider, usually 4 times a day.
• Apply a half-inch (1.5 cm) strip of ointment into the pouch created by pulling down your lower eyelid.
• Gently close your eye and roll your eyeball in all directions to spread the medication.
• Wipe off excess ointment with a clean tissue.
• If using other eye medications, wait 5-10 minutes before applying Lotemax. Apply eye drops first, then ointments.
• Use this medication regularly at the same times each day.
• Continue using it for the full prescribed duration.
• Tell your healthcare provider if your condition worsens or doesn't improve after a few days.

Don'ts

• Don't touch the tip of the ointment tube to your eye or any other surface.
• Don't wear contact lenses while using Lotemax.
• Don't use expired Lotemax ointment.
• Don't stop using Lotemax abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Don't use more ointment or use it for longer than prescribed.
• Don't use Lotemax if it appears contaminated (discolored or with particles).

Common side effects may include:

• Dry/red/itchy/watery eyes
• Elevated intraocular (inside the eye) pressure, which may be associated with optic nerve damage

Serious side effects may include:

• Eye infections
• Glaucoma
• Thinning of eye tissue
• Sudden vision loss
• Blurred vision
• Tunnel vision
• Eye pain or swelling
• Seeing halos around lights
• Serious heart symptoms such as fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in the chest, shortness of breath, and sudden dizziness or passing out

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Lotemax opthalmic ointment, contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Tell your healthcare provider about any allergies before using Loteprednol, including allergies to inactive ingredients.

Inform your healthcare provider of your medical history, especially if you have:

• Eye infections
• Cataracts
• Glaucoma (open-angle type)
• Severe nearsightedness (myopia)
• Diabetes

Loteprednol may cause temporary blurred vision after application. Avoid activities requiring clear vision until it clears up.

Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take (prescription, non-prescription, and herbal) before surgery.

Consult your healthcare provider if you develop a new eye infection, injury, or require eye surgery while using Loteprednol. You might need a new tube.

Loteprednol is not recommended for children after eye surgery.

Pregnant women should only use Loteprednol when clearly necessary. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding as it's unknown if Loteprednol passes into breast milk.