Last reviewed 2026-04-20 · How we verify

Lotemax (LOTEPREDNOL ETABONATE)

Lotemax (Loteprednol etabonate) is a corticosteroid medication developed by Bausch and Lomb, targeting the glucocorticoid receptor. It is used to treat various ocular conditions, including allergic conjunctivitis, uveitis, and corneal abrasions. Lotemax is a small molecule modality, approved by the FDA in 1998, and is now off-patent with multiple generic manufacturers. As a corticosteroid, it works by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune system. Its commercial status allows for generic competition, making it more accessible to patients.

At a glance

Approved indications

• Steroid-responsive inflammatory conditions of the eye
• Post-operative inflammation following ocular surgery

Common side effects

• abnormal vision/blurring
• burning on instillation
• chemosis
• discharge
• dry eyes
• epiphora
• foreign body sensation
• itching
• injection
• photophobia
• conjunctivitis
• corneal abnormalities

Key clinical trials

• Loteprednol Etabonate Versus Prednisolone Acetate for Anterior Chamber Granulomas (PHASE4)
• The Role of Loteprednol in Reducing Post-Intravitreal Injection Related Pain (NA)
• Comparing Post-intravitreal Injection Pain Scores Using Loteprednol, Bromfenac Sodium, and Artificial Tears Over a 24-hour Period (PHASE4)
• Safety and Efficacy of Intracanalicular Dexamethasone Compared to Loteprednol Etabonate in Patients With Keratoconus (EARLY_PHASE1)
• Loteprednol Etabonate 0.25% for Prevention of Cornea Transplant Rejection (PHASE4)
• The Utility of IVCM to Assess Cellular Response and Efficacy of Long-term Topical Steroid Treatment in Patients With DED (PHASE4)
• Comparing Treatment of Dry Eye With Intracanalicular Dexamethasone, Restasis, and/or Lotemax (PHASE4)
• Cyclosporine 0.1% / Loteprednol 0.2% Effect on Anterior Segment Normalization (PHASE3)

Patents

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.