Alrex Loteprednol Etabonate

Alrex is a specially developed formula of loteprednol etabonate that will be used in the treatment of ophthalmic allergies. Alrex is indicated for the treatment of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the eye usually caused by pollens. Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis produces itching, tearing, redness and swelling in the conjunctiva, which is the membrane that covers the inside of the eyelid and the white part of the eye.

Uses

Alrex is used for the temporary relief of the itching and redness of the eye caused by seasonal allergies. Doctors normally advise that Alrex should not be used to treat contact lens-related problems.

How It Works

Alrex is a corticosteroid. Scientists are not sure exactly how it works, but it is believed that it acts by helping the body to create proteins that prevent inflammatory responses typically found in allergic responses.

Contraindications

You should not use Alrex if you have any of the following conditions:

• Eye infections caused by viruses, including herpes and chicken pox.
• Eye infections caused by mycobacterium or fungi.
• An allergic reaction to Alrex.

Warnings

• Long-term use of Alrex or other eye drops that contain steroids may result in glaucoma, and cataracts. Those who already have glaucoma, should tell their doctor before starting this medication.
• Long-term use of Alrex or other eye drops that contain steroids may lower a person's ability to fight infections and may increase their chances of getting an eye infection.
• Using steroid eye drops may make viral diseases of the eye, such as herpes simplex, worse and last longer.
• Using steroid eye drops after cataract surgery may delay healing time.

Precautions

• A doctor should be contacted if pain develops, or if redness or itching gets worse.
• If symptoms do not get better within two days, it may be a good idea to talk to a doctor. He/she may want to re-evaluate the condition.
• Alrex should not be taken longer than 10 days without having the pressure in the eye checked by a doctor.

Information for the Doctor or Healthcare Provider

A doctor or healthcare provider needs to know if a person:

• Wears contact lenses, which should not be worn when the eyes are red.
• Wears contact lenses but the eyes are not red. A person should wait at least ten minutes after using Alrex and before putting in contact lenses because Alrex contains a preservative that may be absorbed by the lens.

Side Effects

This is not a complete list of possible adverse effects; a full listing can be found within the drug prescribing information found in the medication box. Side effects include:

• Increased pressure within the eye
• Blurring of vision
• Burning when putting drops in the eye
• Swelling or discharge around the eyelids
• Dry eyes
• Tearing
• Sensation of having an object in the eye
• Itching
• Redness
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Headache
• Runny nose
• Sore throat

External Links

• Alrex Consumer Information
• Alrex Drug Monograph from Drugs.Com