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LOTEMAX® GEL is contraindicated in most viral diseases of the cornea and conjunctiva
including epithelial herpes simplex keratitis (dendritic keratitis), vaccinia, and varicella, and
also in mycobacterial infection of the eye and fungal diseases of ocular structures. |
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Prolonged use of corticosteroids may result in glaucoma with damage to the optic nerve,
defects in visual acuity and fields of vision. If this product is used for 10 days or longer, IOP
should be monitored. |
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Use of corticosteroids may result in posterior subcapsular cataract formation. |
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Use of steroids after cataract surgery may delay healing and increase the incidence of bleb
formation and occurrence of perforations in those with diseases causing corneal and scleral
thinning. The initial prescription and renewal of the medication order should be made by
a physician only after examination of the patient with the aid of magnification, and where
appropriate, fluorescein staining. |
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Prolonged use of corticosteroids may suppress the host response and thus increase the
hazard of secondary ocular infection. In acute purulent conditions, steroids may mask
infection or enhance existing infection. |
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Use of a corticosteroid medication in the treatment of patients with a history of herpes
simplex requires great caution. Use of ocular steroids may prolong the course and
exacerbate the severity of many viral infections of the eye (including herpes simplex). |
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Fungal infections of the cornea are particularly prone to develop coincidentally with long-term
local steroid application. Fungus invasion must be considered in any persistent corneal
ulceration where a steroid has been used or is in use. |
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Patients should not wear contact lenses when using LOTEMAX® GEL. |
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The most common ocular adverse drug reactions were anterior chamber inflammation (5%),
eye pain (2%) and foreign body sensation (2%). |