Why is this medication prescribed?

Inveltys is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient loteprednol etabonate. It is primarily prescribed for the treatment of postoperative inflammation and pain following ocular surgery.

After undergoing procedures such as cataract surgery or other types of ocular surgery, it is common for patients to experience inflammation and discomfort in the eye. Inveltys belongs to a class of medications called corticosteroids, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. Loteprednol etabonate, the active ingredient in Inveltys, helps reduce inflammation in the eye, thereby alleviating pain and discomfort.

Inveltys is administered as an eye drop and is specifically formulated to deliver the medication to the targeted tissues in the eye. It is typically prescribed for a short duration, usually for a few weeks, to manage the acute postoperative inflammatory response. The exact dosing regimen and duration of treatment will be determined by the prescribing healthcare professional based on the individual patient’s needs and the specific surgical procedure performed.

How should this medicine be used?

Inveltys (loteprednol etabonate ophthalmic suspension) is an eye drop medication that should be used as directed by your healthcare provider. Here are general guidelines for using Inveltys, but it’s important to follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the eye drops.
• Shake the Inveltys bottle gently to ensure the suspension is well mixed.
• Remove the protective cap from the bottle.
• Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
• Hold the bottle upside down, with the tip pointing downwards, over your eye.
• Squeeze the bottle gently to instill one drop into the affected eye.
• After instilling the drop, close your eye gently and keep it closed for a few seconds to allow the medication to spread evenly over the eye surface.
• If your healthcare provider has prescribed Inveltys for both eyes, repeat the same process for the other eye.
• Replace the protective cap on the bottle, making sure it is securely closed.
• Avoid touching the tip of the bottle to any surfaces, including your eye, as this can contaminate the medication.
• If you are using any other eye medications, wait at least 5 minutes between applying Inveltys and other eye drops to allow each medication to be absorbed properly.

It is essential to follow the prescribed dosing schedule and duration of treatment recommended by your doctor. Do not stop using Inveltys abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider, as this could affect the effectiveness of the treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about using Inveltys, it is always best to consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

Inveltys (loteprednol etabonate ophthalmic suspension) is primarily indicated for the treatment of postoperative inflammation and pain following ocular surgery. However, it may also be prescribed off-label for other conditions involving ocular inflammation, such as uveitis (inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye) or allergic conjunctivitis (eye allergies).

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding precautions, here are some important points to consider when using Inveltys:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any known allergies, particularly to corticosteroids or any other ingredients in Inveltys. Allergic reactions to medications can range from mild to severe, so it’s important to disclose this information before starting treatment.
• Infections: Inveltys is not recommended for use in patients with viral, fungal, or bacterial eye infections. If you have an active eye infection, it’s important to address that condition first before starting treatment with Inveltys.
• Contact lenses: Remove contact lenses before using Inveltys, as the medication may contain ingredients that can be absorbed by contact lenses. You should wait at least 10 minutes after using the eye drops before reinserting your contact lenses.
• Glaucoma: Inveltys may increase intraocular pressure (pressure inside the eye), so it should be used with caution in individuals with a history of glaucoma or increased intraocular pressure. Regular monitoring of intraocular pressure may be necessary during treatment.
• Corticosteroid-related effects: Prolonged use of corticosteroid medications, including Inveltys, can increase the risk of cataracts or glaucoma. Additionally, the use of corticosteroids may delay wound healing. Close monitoring by an eye care professional is important to assess any potential side effects and to ensure the benefits outweigh the risks.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of Inveltys during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, it’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of using Inveltys with your healthcare provider.

These are general precautions, and it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider for specific guidance based on your medical history and individual circumstances. They can provide the most accurate information and recommendations regarding the use of Inveltys and any potential precautions or contraindications that may apply to you.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions associated with using Inveltys (loteprednol etabonate ophthalmic suspension). You can continue with your regular diet while using this medication.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Inveltys, try to take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Inveltys (loteprednol etabonate ophthalmic suspension) may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects that have been reported with the use of Inveltys include:

• Eye irritation or discomfort
• Increased intraocular pressure (pressure inside the eye)
• Blurred vision
• Eye redness
• Eye pain
• Watery eyes
• Eye itching
• Sensitivity to light
• Dry eyes
• Headache

These side effects are usually mild and temporary, resolving on their own without the need for medical intervention. However, if these side effects persist or worsen, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Inveltys belongs to the class of corticosteroid medications, and like other corticosteroids, it carries a risk of certain side effects, especially with prolonged or high-dose use. These potential side effects can include:

• Increased risk of eye infections
• Delayed wound healing
• Cataract formation
• Glaucoma or increased intraocular pressure
• Development or worsening of pre-existing eye conditions, such as herpes simplex or other viral infections of the eye
• Thinning of the cornea or sclera (the outer layers of the eye)
• Changes in taste
• Systemic side effects (when the medication is absorbed into the bloodstream) are less common with topical ophthalmic administration but can still occur in certain individuals. These can include adrenal suppression, high blood sugar levels, and other systemic corticosteroid-related effects.

It’s important to discuss any concerns or questions about potential side effects with your healthcare provider. They can provide you with more specific information based on your medical history and help assess the risk-to-benefit ratio of using Inveltys for your particular situation.

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

Storage and disposal:

• Inveltys should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
• Do not freeze the medication.
• Do not use Inveltys if it has been stored for longer than the recommended period after opening or if the expiration date has passed.
• Do not transfer the medication to another container.
• Keep Inveltys out of the reach of children and pets.

In case of emergency/overdose

• If you suspect an overdose or accidental ingestion of Inveltys, immediately contact your local poison control center or seek medical assistance.
• Accidental ingestion of Inveltys is unlikely to cause harm due to its topical ophthalmic use. However, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

What other information should I know?

• Follow the prescribed dosing schedule and duration of treatment recommended by your healthcare provider.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, that you are currently taking, as they may interact with Inveltys.
• Attend all follow-up appointments as advised by your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the treatment.
• Do not share Inveltys with others, even if they have similar symptoms or conditions, as it is a prescription medication intended for individual use only.

It’s important to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for specific instructions and any additional information regarding the storage, disposal, and other aspects of using Inveltys. They can provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date guidance based on your individual circumstances.