Alrex (ophthalmic)

Generic name: loteprednol (ophthalmic) [ lo-te-PRED-nol-off-THAL-mik ]
Brand names: Alrex, Eysuvis, Inveltys, Lotemax, Lotemax SM
Drug class: Ophthalmic steroids

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Dec 1, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Alrex ophthalmic?

Alrex (for the eyes) is a steroid medicine that is used to treat eye inflammation caused by allergies, shingles (herpes zoster), severe acne, iritis, or certain other conditions.

Alrex is also used to treat pain and swelling after eye surgery.

The Eysuvis brand of Alrex is used to treat dry eye disease.

Alrex may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Alrex ophthalmic side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Alrex may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• pain when using the eye drops;

• worsening redness or itching;

• eye pain or swelling, trouble closing your eye;

• pain behind your eyes, sudden vision changes;

• tunnel vision, seeing halos around lights; or

• signs of eye infection--redness, severe discomfort, crusting or drainage.

Common side effects of Alrex may include:

• minor burning when using the eye drops;

• eye pain, blurred vision;

• dry or watery eyes;

• feeling like something is in your eye;

• your eyes may be more sensitive to light;

• headache; or

• runny nose, sore throat.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

You should not use Alrex if you have an eye infection (including herpes simplex).

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Alrex if you are allergic to it, or if you have an eye infection (including herpes simplex).

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• glaucoma; or

• cataracts, or cataract surgery.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Alrex is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I use Alrex ophthalmic?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Do not use while wearing soft contact lenses. A preservative in Alrex could permanently stain the lenses. Use the medicine at least 15 minutes before inserting your contact lenses.

Wash your hands before using eye medication.

Shake the eye drops well just before each use. If using the gel, turn the bottle upside down and shake once to fill the dropper tip with gel.

To use this medicine: Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye and squeeze a drop into this pocket. Close your eyes for 1 or 2 minutes.

Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed.

Wait at least 5 minutes before using any other eye drops your doctor has prescribed.

Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.

If you use this medicine for longer than 10 days, you may need frequent vision tests to check the pressure inside your eyes.

This medicine is for short term use. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 2 days of treatment.

Do not use this medicine for longer than your doctor has prescribed.

Store this medicine in an upright position at room temperature. Do not freeze.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medicine as soon as you can. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of Alrex ophthalmic is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

What should I avoid while using loteprednol ophthalmic?

Do not share Alrex with another person, even if they have the same symptoms you have.

This medicine may cause blurred vision and may impair your reactions. Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you.

What other drugs will affect Alrex ophthalmic?

Medicine used in the eyes is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the difference between Inveltys, Lotemax and Alrex?

Further information

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.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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