Why is this medication prescribed?

Eysuvis (loteprednol etabonate ophthalmic suspension 0.25%) is prescribed for the short-term treatment of dry eye disease. Dry eye disease can cause discomfort, irritation, and inflammation of the eyes due to insufficient tear production or poor tear quality. Eysuvis helps to reduce inflammation and relieve the symptoms associated with dry eye disease. It’s specifically formulated to target the inflammation without causing some of the side effects associated with long-term steroid use in the eye.

How should this medicine be used?

Eysuvis is typically used as an eye drop and should be applied according to your doctor’s instructions. Here’s a general guide:

• Wash Hands: Before using Eysuvis, wash your hands thoroughly to prevent contamination.
• Shake the Bottle: Shake the Eysuvis bottle well to ensure that the suspension is properly mixed.
• Prepare the Eye: Tilt your head back and gently pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
• Administer the Drops: Hold the bottle upside down over the eye and squeeze it to release the prescribed number of drops into the eye’s pocket. Avoid touching the tip of the dropper to any surface, including your eye, to prevent contamination.
• Close Eyes: Close your eyes gently for a few moments to allow the medication to spread evenly over the surface of the eye.
• Avoid Blinking: Try not to blink excessively immediately after applying the drops to prevent them from being washed out of the eye.
• Repeat if Necessary: If you’ve been instructed to apply Eysuvis drops to both eyes, repeat the process for the other eye.
• Wash Hands Again: After administering the drops, wash your hands again to remove any residual medication.

It’s important to follow your doctor’s specific instructions regarding the dosage and frequency of Eysuvis use. Do not stop using Eysuvis abruptly without consulting your doctor, as doing so could worsen your condition. If you experience any adverse effects or have concerns about using Eysuvis, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

Eysuvis is specifically formulated for the treatment of dry eye disease, and its use for other purposes is not recommended unless directed by a healthcare professional. Using Eysuvis for conditions other than dry eye disease may not be effective and could potentially be harmful.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to follow when using Eysuvis include:

• Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Use Eysuvis exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
• Avoid Contamination: Be careful not to touch the tip of the Eysuvis dropper to any surface, including your eye, to prevent contamination. Contamination can lead to eye infections or other complications.
• Contact Lens Use: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using Eysuvis. Wait at least 10 minutes after using the eye drops before reinserting your contact lenses. Eysuvis contains a preservative that can be absorbed by soft contact lenses.
• Wait Between Eye Medications: If you are using other eye medications, wait at least 5 minutes between applying each medication to prevent dilution and reduce the risk of interactions.
• Potential for Glaucoma or Cataracts: Long-term use of corticosteroids like loteprednol etabonate (the active ingredient in Eysuvis) in the eye may increase the risk of developing glaucoma or cataracts. Your doctor may monitor you for these conditions during treatment.
• Inform Your Doctor: Inform your doctor about any other eye conditions you have, such as glaucoma or cataracts, as well as any other medical conditions or allergies you have. Also, inform them about any other medications, vitamins, or supplements you are taking, as they may interact with Eysuvis.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using Eysuvis with your doctor before starting treatment.
• Eye Irritation: If you experience eye irritation, pain, redness, or changes in vision while using Eysuvis, discontinue use and contact your doctor immediately.

By following these precautions and your doctor’s guidance, you can use Eysuvis safely and effectively for the treatment of dry eye disease.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding dietary instructions, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with the use of Eysuvis. However, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet to support overall eye health and well-being.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to administer a dose of Eysuvis, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one. If you’re unsure about what to do, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for advice.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Eysuvis (loteprednol etabonate ophthalmic suspension 0.25%) can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects may include:

• Eye Irritation: This can manifest as burning, stinging, itching, or discomfort in the eye.
• Blurred Vision: Some individuals may experience temporary blurred vision after using Eysuvis.
• Eye Redness: The eyes may appear red or bloodshot after using Eysuvis.
• Taste Changes: Some people may notice a temporary change in taste after using Eysuvis.
• Headache: Headaches may occur as a side effect of Eysuvis use.
• Foreign Body Sensation: It may feel like there’s something in the eye, such as grit or sand.
• Eyelid Swelling: Swelling or puffiness of the eyelids may occur.
• Increased Intraocular Pressure: Long-term use of corticosteroids like loteprednol etabonate can potentially increase intraocular pressure, leading to conditions like glaucoma. However, this is more of a concern with prolonged use rather than short-term use as prescribed for dry eye disease.
• Allergic Reactions: Rarely, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Eysuvis, which can manifest as itching, redness, swelling, or rash around the eyes.

If you experience any severe or persistent side effects while using Eysuvis, it’s important to contact your doctor or seek medical attention promptly. They can provide guidance on whether to continue using the medication and may recommend alternative treatments if necessary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

When it comes to storage and disposal of Eysuvis, here’s what you should know:

• Storage: Store Eysuvis at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Avoid exposing the medication to excessive heat or cold. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Do not freeze. Store it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Eysuvis properly according to local regulations. Do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for guidance on how to dispose of medications safely.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Help: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe adverse reactions after using Eysuvis, seek medical attention immediately. Contact your local poison control center or go to the nearest emergency room for assistance.
• Symptom Management: If someone has accidentally ingested Eysuvis or experienced an overdose, do not try to induce vomiting unless instructed by medical professionals. Provide supportive care and follow the guidance of healthcare providers.

What other information should I know?

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before using Eysuvis. Your doctor will weigh the potential benefits and risks of using the medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
• Follow-up Appointments: Attend scheduled follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your response to Eysuvis treatment and assess any potential side effects.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose of Eysuvis, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Do not share: Do not share Eysuvis with others, even if they have similar symptoms. The medication is prescribed specifically for your condition and may not be suitable for others.
• Allergies: Inform your doctor of any allergies you have, especially if you have a known allergy to corticosteroids or any other ingredients in Eysuvis.

Following these guidelines will help ensure the safe and effective use of Eysuvis for the treatment of dry eye disease.