Pred Forte vs. Cortef for Eye Inflammation and Allergic Conjunctivitis: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

prednisolone eye drops

Hydrocortisone

(Cortef)

Summary for Pred Forte

Prescription only

Prednisolone eye drops is a type of steroid eye drop. It helps treat eye inflammation in adults and children. The medication helps relieve symptoms like itchy eye, eye redness, and swelling in the eye. Prednisolone eye drops come as a generic as well as brand names like Pred Forte and Pred Mild. This eye drop is usually used in the affected eye(s) 2 to 4 times a day. Side effects can include temporary burning and stinging in the eye when you put the drops in.

Indications for Pred Forte

Eye inflammation

Pros and Cons for Pred Forte

Pros

Few side effects
Approved for both adults and children

Cons

Might have to use the eye drops up to 4 times a day
Some formulations contain sulfite, so not a good option for people with a sulfite allergy

Common Side Effects for Pred Forte

Temporary burning or stinging in the eye
Feeling like there's something in your eye

Warnings for Pred Forte

Risk of eye infection when used for a long time
Risk of eye problems when used for a long time
Slow healing of the eye after cataract surgery
Severe allergic reaction

Summary for Cortef

Prescription only

Oral hydrocortisone (Cortef) is a corticosteroid. It's taken by adults and children to treat health conditions related to inflammation or an overactive immune system, including rheumatoid arthritis and certain skin conditions. Hydrocortisone (Cortef) comes as a tablet that you take by mouth daily, though dosing can also differ depending on your condition. There's a separate intravenous or IV form called Solu-Cortef. Some side effects of hydrocortisone (Cortef) include adrenal insufficiency and weight gain. Hydrocortisone (Cortef) is available as both a brand-name and generic medication.

Indications for Cortef

Hydrocortisone (Cortef) is used for many different conditions. Generally, it's used for autoimmune or inflammatory conditions. Some examples include:

Allergies or allergic reactions
Joint conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
Skin conditions (e.g. psoriasis)
Conditions affecting certain hormones (e.g., low adrenal hormones)
Gut conditions (e.g., ulcerative colitis)
Conditions related to red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets
Certain cancers (e.g., leukemia)
Nervous system conditions (e.g., multiple sclerosis)
Eye conditions
Lung conditions
Kidney conditions
Lupus erythematosus

Pros and Cons for Cortef

Pros

Taken by mouth
Not as strong as other corticosteroids, making it less likely to cause side effects
Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

Stopping suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms, like tiredness and dizziness
Can cause weight gain
Long-term use in children can cause stunted growth

Common Side Effects for Cortef

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 Cortef

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

Prices with our coupons for Pred Forte vs. Cortef

Prednisolone Acetate1 eye dropper / 5ml of 1%

$17.70$20.80

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Hydrocortisone90 tablets / 5mg

$15.00$16.28

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Pred Forte vs. Cortef

prednisolone eye drops

Hydrocortisone

Summary for Pred Forte

Indications for Pred Forte

Pros and Cons for Pred Forte

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Pred Forte

Warnings for Pred Forte

Summary for Cortef

Indications for Cortef

Pros and Cons for Cortef

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Cortef

Warnings for Cortef

Prices with our coupons for Pred Forte vs. Cortef

Compare other Eye Inflammation and Allergic Conjunctivitis drugs

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prednisolone eye drops

Hydrocortisone

Summary for Pred Forte

Indications for Pred Forte

Pros and Cons for Pred Forte

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Pred Forte

Warnings for Pred Forte

Summary for Cortef

Indications for Cortef

Pros and Cons for Cortef

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Cortef

Warnings for Cortef