Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Loteprednol (Lotemax) and nedocromil (Alocril) are both prescription eye medications, but they have some important differences. Loteprednol is a corticosteroid that treats various eye conditions, including dry eye disease, eye inflammation, and pain after eye surgery. It is also used for eye inflammation due to seasonal allergies. Nedocromil, on the other hand, is specifically used for itchy or watery eyes caused by allergies. While loteprednol is available in different forms like suspension, gel, and ointment, nedocromil is only available as an eye drop. Loteprednol can be used up to four times a day, whereas nedocromil is typically used twice daily. Both medications are available as a lower-cost generic. Common side effects of loteprednol include blurry vision and burning, while nedocromil may cause headaches and eye irritation. Both medications require careful handling to avoid contamination and should not be used with contact lenses.
Loteprednol (Lotemax)
Alocril (nedocromil)
Loteprednol (Lotemax)
Alocril (nedocromil)
Summary of Loteprednol vs. Nedocromil
Summary for Corticosteroid
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.
Summary for Mast cell stabilizer
Prescription only
Alocril (nedocromil) is an eye drop for eye-related allergy symptoms, such as itchiness or watery eyes. Typically, you place 1 to 2 drops into your eyes twice daily. But it's not a first-choice option for allergy symptoms. Some common side effects of this medication include headaches and eye irritation.
Indications of Loteprednol vs. Nedocromil
Indications for
•Dry eye disease
•Eye inflammation conditions
•Inflammation and pain after eye surgery
•Eye inflammation due to seasonal allergies
Indications for
•Itchy or watery eyes from allergy
Pros and Cons of Loteprednol vs. Nedocromil
Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
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.