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Compare Zaditor vs. Loteprednol

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

Key takeaways

Zaditor (ketotifen) and loteprednol (Lotemax) are both eye medications, but they serve different purposes and belong to different drug classes. Zaditor is an over-the-counter antihistamine used to relieve itchy eyes caused by allergies. On the other hand, loteprednol is a prescription-only corticosteroid used to treat various eye conditions, including dry eye disease, inflammation, and pain after eye surgery. While Zaditor is typically used twice a day, loteprednol may need to be used up to four times a day depending on the condition being treated. Additionally, loteprednol 0.5% gel and suspension forms are available as generics, while other strengths are only available as the brand medication. Zaditor, on the other hand has one strength (0.025%) and is available as a low-cost generic. Both medications can cause eye irritation, but loteprednol carries more risks, such as high eye pressure and cataracts, especially with long-term use.

  • Zaditor (ketotifen)
    Loteprednol (Lotemax)
  • Zaditor (ketotifen)
    Loteprednol (Lotemax)

  • Summary of Zaditor vs. Loteprednol

    Summary for Antihistamine

    Zaditor (ketotifen) is an antihistamine eye drop that's available over the counter for allergy-related itchy eyes. It works by blocking histamine and stopping your body from releasing chemicals that cause allergy symptoms. Adults and children can use Zaditor (ketotifen). The typical dosage is one drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily. Side effects can include headache, blurry vision, and dry eyes.

    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.

  • Indications of Zaditor vs. Loteprednol

    Indications for
    •Allergy-related itchy eyes
    Indications for
    •Dry eye disease
    •Eye inflammation conditions
    •Inflammation and pain after eye surgery
    •Eye inflammation due to seasonal allergies

  • Pros and Cons of Zaditor vs. Loteprednol

    Pros and Const for Antihistamine
    Pros
    •Works within 15 minutes to relieve itchy eyes
    •Available over the counter
    •Can use in children age 3 or older
    •Only need to use 1 drop twice a day
    Cons
    •Won't treat an eye infection
    •Shouldn't be used for irritation caused by contact lenses
    •Can only be used for a short period of time
    •Need to take your contact lens out before placing the eye drop
    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.

  • Common Side Effects of Zaditor vs. Loteprednol

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache
    •Runny nose
    •Rash
    •Dry eye
    Common Side Effects for
    •Blurry vision
    •Burning after placing the drops into the eye
    •Itching
    •Feeling like there's something in your eye

  • Warnings of Zaditor vs. Loteprednol

    Common Side Effects for
    •Not to be used with contact lenses
    •Allergy to ingredients
    •Risk for eye infection
    Common Side Effects for
    •HIGH EYE PRESSURE (GLAUCOMA)
    •CATARACTS
    •NEW OR WORSENED INFECTION
    •EYE INJURY OR DAMAGE
    •CONTACT LENS USE

  • Prices with our coupons for Zaditor vs. Loteprednol

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    Learn more about Loteprednol

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