Alrex eye drops are a brand name for loteprednol etabonate ophthalmic suspension (a corticosteroid) used to reduce inflammation in the eye.
What it’s used for
- Short-term relief of inflammation due to allergic conjunctivitis (and some other noninfectious eye inflammations) as prescribed by a doctor.
- Not for routine use unless a clinician prescribes it.
How to use (general guidance)
- Use exactly as your doctor directs. A common pattern is one drop in the affected eye(s) several times a day, but your dose may differ.
- How to apply:
- Wash hands first.
- Tilt your head back, pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
- Put 1 drop into the pocket without touching the bottle tip to the eye.
- Close your eye gently and press lightly on the inside corner of the eye for 1 minute to reduce drainage.
- If using more than one eye drop or other eye medications, wait several minutes between drops.
- Replace the cap tightly after using.
- Do not share the bottle and do not use beyond the labeled duration or beyond what your clinician told you.
- If you wear contact lenses, check with your clinician about safety and whether you should remove lenses before applying the drops and when you can reinsert them.
Common side effects
- Temporary stinging or burning, irritation, or blurred vision just after applying
- Increased tearing or dry eyes
- Headache
- Some people may have increased intraocular pressure (glaucoma risk) with steroid eye drops, especially with longer use
Important safety information
- Do not use if you have a viral, fungal, or ocular bacterial infection of the eye unless advised by a clinician; steroids can worsen infections.
- Use with caution if you have glaucoma, a history of increased eye pressure, or if you are on other eye meds that affect the eye pressure.
- Long-term use can increase the risk of cataracts or infections inside the eye; your doctor will monitor you if you need longer treatment.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing.
Possible drug interactions
- There aren’t many drug interactions with eye drops, but avoid mixing with other eye medicines in the same eye at the same time unless your doctor says it’s okay. Wait several minutes between different drops.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions about contact lenses and other eye medications.
Storage and disposal
- Store at room temperature, away from light. Do not freeze.
- Keep the bottle closed when not in use.
- Discard after the date listed on the bottle or as advised on the patient information leaflet. Do not use if the solution looks changed (discolored, has particles).
If you have symptoms like severe eye pain, sudden vision changes, eye redness with discharge, or if your symptoms worsen or don’t improve after your course, contact your doctor promptly.
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