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Lotemax vs. Prednisolone

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Loteprednol

(Lotemax)

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Prednisolone

 

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Summary for Lotemax

Prescription only

Loteprednol (Lotemax) is a steroid eye medication that comes in many strengths and forms to treat various eye conditions including recent eye surgery, dry eye, inflammation, and seasonal allergies.

Indications for Lotemax

  • Dry eye disease
  • Eye inflammation conditions
  • Inflammation and pain after eye surgery
  • Eye inflammation due to seasonal allergies

Pros and Cons for Lotemax

Pros

  • Applied directly where the pain or inflammation is
  • Causes fewer serious side effects than oral medications
  • Available as a suspension, gel, and ointment form

Cons

  • Slows healing and raises your risk of eye infection
  • May have to be used up to four times a day
  • Most forms are brand name only and may be expensive.

Common Side Effects for Lotemax

  • Blurry vision
  • Burning after placing the drops into the eye
  • Itching
  • Feeling like there's something in your eye

Warnings for Lotemax

  • HIGH EYE PRESSURE (GLAUCOMA)
  • CATARACTS
  • NEW OR WORSENED INFECTION
  • EYE INJURY OR DAMAGE
  • CONTACT LENS USE

Summary for Prednisolone

Prescription only

Oral prednisolone is a corticosteroid. It's taken by mouth to treat health conditions related to an overactive immune system or inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, in adults and children. Your healthcare team will determine your dose based on what medical condition you have. Some common short-term side effects of prednisolone include trouble sleeping and mood changes. And if you take this medication for a longer period of time, you're more likely to experience long-term side effects, like weight gain and weakened immune system. If you need to stop prednisolone, your healthcare team might need to taper down your dosage slowly to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Indications for Prednisolone

This medication is used for many different conditions. Generally, it's used for autoimmune disorders, conditions related to swelling, or cancer. Some examples include:

Pros and Cons for Prednisolone

Pros

  • Works well to treat many different conditions involving the immune system
  • Dose can be adjusted based on your response
  • Available as a lower-cost generic
  • Available as a liquid that might be easier for children

Cons

  • Can cause side effects like upset stomach, mood changes, and sleep problems
  • Long-term use can cause problems with skin, bone, and eye health.
  • Can raise your risk for infections
  • Need to taper your dose before stopping

Common Side Effects for Prednisolone

  • Swelling (e.g., puffiness in the face, hands, or feet)
  • High blood pressure
  • High blood sugar
  • Muscle weakness
  • Stomach pain
  • Insomnia (trouble sleeping)
  • Changes in your mood
  • Headache
  • Acne
  • Weight gain and greater appetite

Warnings for Prednisolone

  • Greater risk of infections
  • Changes in heart and kidney function
  • Bone problems with long-term use
  • Reduced adrenal gland function
  • Eye Problems
  • Mood and behavior changes
  • Stomach problems

Prices with our coupons for Lotemax vs. Prednisolone

Price Card Drug Icon
Loteprednol1 eye dropper / 5ml of 0.5%
$61.52$197.00
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Prednisolone Sodium Phosphate50 ml / 15mg/5ml
$14.04$47.44
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