Eysuvis (Loteprednol 0.25%)

Eysuvis (loteprednol etabonate ophthalmic suspension 0.25%) is the first and only steroid eye drop approved specifically for short-term treatment of dry eye disease flares. It uses submicron particle technology for better penetration at a lower concentration.

Official website: eysuvis.myalcon.com

How It Works

Loteprednol is a "soft" steroid:

• Reduces inflammation on the eye surface
• Quickly metabolized to inactive form
• Lower risk of pressure elevation

Submicron particle technology:

• Smaller particles penetrate better
• Allows lower concentration to be effective
• May reduce side effects

When It's Used

Dry Eye Flares

Signs you may be having a flare:

• Sudden worsening of dry eye symptoms
• Increased burning, stinging, or redness
• Symptoms not controlled by usual treatment
• Triggered by environment, illness, or stress

Not For

• Daily ongoing dry eye treatment
• Long-term inflammation control
• Infections
• Regular maintenance therapy

How to Use

• Dosing: 1-2 drops in affected eye(s) four times daily
• Duration: Up to 2 weeks only
• Shake well before each use
• Contact lenses: Remove before use; wait 15 minutes before reinserting
• Continue other drops: Keep using artificial tears and other prescribed dry eye medications

What to Expect

During Treatment

• Improvement in symptoms within days
• Reduced redness, burning, discomfort
• Better response to other dry eye treatments

After Treatment

• Symptoms should be better controlled
• Resume regular dry eye regimen
• May need periodic "rescue" courses for future flares

Side Effects

Common

• Eye pain or discomfort
• Instillation site pain
• Headache

Less Common

• Blurred vision
• Eye irritation
• Increased eye pressure (monitor if concern)

Steroid Risks

Even with short-term use and low concentration:

• Elevated eye pressure possible (rare with 2-week use)
• Don't exceed 2-week duration
• Not for repeated frequent use without guidance

Precautions

• Maximum 2 weeks per treatment course
• Not for viral/fungal infections
• Glaucoma: Use with caution
• Contact lenses: Remove before use
• Don't use as ongoing maintenance treatment

For a full side-by-side comparison of all prescription dry eye medications, see comparing dry eye prescription drops.

Eysuvis vs. Other Dry Eye Treatments

Using Eysuvis in Your Dry Eye Regimen

During a flare:

1. Start Eysuvis four times daily
2. Continue artificial tears
3. Continue maintenance medications (Restasis, Xiidra, etc.)
4. Use for up to 2 weeks

After the flare:

1. Stop Eysuvis
2. Continue maintenance regimen
3. Symptoms should be better controlled
4. Discuss with doctor if flares are frequent

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Eysuvis every day for my dry eye?

No, Eysuvis is not for daily maintenance. It's specifically for short-term treatment of flares-up to 2 weeks. For ongoing treatment, medications like Restasis, Cequa, or Xiidra are appropriate.

How do I know if I'm having a dry eye flare?

A flare is a sudden worsening of symptoms beyond your baseline. If your dry eye is usually manageable but suddenly becomes significantly worse-more burning, redness, or discomfort-you may be having a flare.

Can I use Eysuvis with other dry eye drops?

Yes, continue your other dry eye medications. Wait at least 5 minutes between different eye drops. Eysuvis is added temporarily to help control the flare.

What if my symptoms don't improve with Eysuvis?

If symptoms don't improve within a few days, or worsen, contact your eye doctor. The diagnosis may need to be reconsidered, or additional treatment may be needed.

How often can I use Eysuvis?

Each course is up to 2 weeks. If you need frequent courses, discuss with your doctor-this might indicate your baseline dry eye treatment needs adjustment.

Is Eysuvis safe?

Eysuvis is designed for short-term use with a low steroid concentration. When used as directed (up to 2 weeks), the risks are low. Don't exceed the recommended duration.