Loteprednol Etabonate Ophthalmic drops, suspension

What is this medicine?

LOTEPREDNOL (loe te PRED nol) is used in the eye to treat swelling and redness caused by certain eye conditions or surgery.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• any active infection
• glaucoma
• wear contact lenses
• an unusual or allergic reaction to loteprednol, glycerin, benzalkonium chloride, other corticosteroids, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Shake well before using. Wash your hands before and after use. Tilt your head back slightly, and then pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Do not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye, fingertips, or other surface. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the eye pouch. Gently close the eye for a few moments to spread the drops. Do not blink. Keep the eyes closed and apply gentle pressure to the inner corner of the eye with your finger for 1 or 2 minutes to allow the medicine to be absorbed by the eye. Do not use the medicine more often than directed. Do not stop using this medicine earlier than directed by your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without asking your doctor or health care professional.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Check with your doctor or health care professional if your condition gets worse or if it does not start to get better within 2 days. Tell your doctor or health care professional if you are exposed to anyone with chickenpox.

If you wear contact lenses, you should remove them before using this medicine. You should wait about 10 minutes after putting the drops in your eyes before putting your lenses back in. You should not wear your contact lenses if your eyes are red.

Wear sunglasses if this medicine makes your eyes more sensitive to sunlight.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• blurred vision or a change in vision
• eye infection
• eye pain or discharge
• increased redness and swelling of the eyes

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• dry, watery, itchy, or irritated eyes
• headache
• runny nose or sore throat
• sensitivity of the eyes to sunlight
• temporary blurring of vision
• the feeling that something is in your eye

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE:This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.