Loteprednol Etabonate

Generic Name

Loteprednol Etabonate

Other Names

• LE
• Lotemax
• Alrex

Drug Class

• Corticosteroid

Chemical Formula

C24H31ClO7

Molecular Weight

466.94 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

• It acts by inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes.

Indications

• Allergic conjunctivitis
• Postoperative inflammation following ocular surgery

Common Dosage Forms

• Ophthalmic suspension
• Ophthalmic gel

Typical Dosage

• 1 to 2 drops in the affected eye(s) four times daily

Pediatric Dosage

• As per physician's recommendation based on weight and age

Geriatric Dosage

• May require dosage adjustment based on individual patient requirements

Side Effects

• Blurred vision
• Burning or stinging sensation in the eye
• Increased intraocular pressure
• Headache

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to loteprednol etabonate or any component of the formulation

Pregnancy Category

• Category C - Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans.

Lactation Safety

• Caution advised - It is not known whether loteprednol etabonate is excreted in human milk.

Drug Interactions

• No significant drug interactions reported

Overdose Symptoms

• Extremely unlikely with topical ophthalmic use

Antidote for Overdose

• Not applicable

Storage Conditions

• Store at room temperature between 15-25°C (59-77°F)

Pharmacokinetics

• Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption through the ocular tissues
• Distribution: Not well characterized
• Metabolism: Hepatic metabolism
• Excretion: Mainly excreted in the feces

Precautions

• Monitor intraocular pressure regularly during prolonged use
• Avoid contamination of the dropper tip to prevent infection

Warnings

• Prolonged use may result in glaucoma with damage to the optic nerve

Others

• Loteprednol etabonate is a prodrug that is converted to its active form, loteprednol, upon administration.