Alrex® (Loteprednol 0.2%) Ophthalmic Suspension for Eye Allergy Relief

What Alrex® Is and How It Works

Alrex® is loteprednol etabonate 0.2% ophthalmic suspension. It is a topical corticosteroid used short term to relieve the signs and symptoms of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis. Many people search for alrex eye drops to help reduce itching, redness, and swelling triggered by pollen or other allergens. Alrex is prescription-only and is not an over-the-counter option.

YouDrugstore is a licensed Canadian pharmacy headquartered in Manitoba; prescriptions are reviewed by licensed pharmacists before dispensing. We also work with licensed, vetted international partner pharmacies to source authentic brand medicines across a broad range at affordable pricing.

Loteprednol binds glucocorticoid receptors on ocular tissues. This reduces the production of inflammatory mediators, which helps control ocular itching and irritation. The suspension must be shaken before each use to disperse the active drug evenly. Alrex is made by Bausch & Lomb and is supplied in a multi-dose dropper bottle with a preservative.

Alrex eye drops uses include short-term treatment of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis. It is not intended to treat infections, dry eye disease, or contact lens–related irritation. A healthcare professional may monitor eye pressure if steroid therapy continues for more than 10 days. Use only in the eye.

Dosage and Usage

• Typical adult dosing: one drop in the affected eye(s) four times daily.
• Shake the bottle well before each dose.
• Wash hands. Tilt head back and pull down the lower eyelid to form a pocket.
• Hold the bottle tip down without touching the eye or lashes.
• Instill one drop, then close eyes gently for 1–2 minutes.
• If using other eye medicines, separate doses by at least 5–10 minutes.
• Contact lenses: remove before using; wait about 10 minutes before reinsertion.
• Do not wear lenses if the eyes are red or inflamed unless directed by a clinician.
• Missed dose: instill when remembered, or skip if near the next dose. Do not double up.
• Do not use if the solution changes color, becomes cloudy, or if the seal is broken.

• Store at 20–25 °C (68–77 °F); excursions 15–30 °C (59–86 °F) may be acceptable.
• Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed and upright when not in use.
• Protect from light and avoid contamination of the dropper tip.
• For travel, keep in your carry-on. Use a small insulated pouch if temperatures may exceed 30 °C (86 °F).
• Keep out of reach of children and pets. Discard 4 weeks after opening unless directed otherwise.

Benefits and Savings

Alrex provides targeted anti-inflammatory relief for allergic conjunctivitis. Many patients experience less itching within the first day, with further improvement across several days. The suspension is easy to use, and the QID schedule is simple to follow during high-allergen seasons. It can be used alongside non-steroidal allergy measures recommended by a prescriber.

Ordering from Canada can lower the alrex eye drops price. Savings of 60–80% versus typical US pricing are common, depending on supply. Multi-month orders may reduce the per-month cost, and we can send reorder reminders before you run low. Some shoppers compare alrex cost with GoodRx listings; you can review our current price and decide what fits your budget.

If you are looking for extra savings, see promotions. You may find an alrex coupon featured at times. Prices and availability can change without notice.

Side Effects and Safety

• Common effects: temporary blurred vision, mild burning or stinging, eye discomfort, tearing, dry eyes.
• Less common: light sensitivity, eye redness, headache, taste changes after instillation.
• Contact lens wearers may notice lens intolerance during active inflammation.

Serious risks are uncommon with short-term use but can include elevated intraocular pressure (glaucoma), posterior subcapsular cataract with prolonged use, delayed wound healing, and secondary infection. Do not use with most active eye infections, including viral (such as herpes simplex keratitis), mycobacterial, or fungal disease of the eye. Seek medical help for worsening pain, swelling, discharge, or vision changes. Regular pressure checks may be advised if treatment extends beyond 10 days.

Onset Time

Relief of itching can begin within hours of the first doses. Redness and swelling often ease over 24–48 hours. Maximum benefit is usually reached after several days of consistent use as the inflammatory response settles. If symptoms do not improve or worsen after a few days, contact a healthcare professional for re-evaluation.

Compare With Alternatives

Non-steroidal antihistamine/mast-cell stabilizer drops, such as olopatadine or ketotifen, are common first-line options for allergic conjunctivitis. These target histamine and stabilize mast cells to reduce itching and redness. They are often used for prevention during allergy seasons and may be combined with short steroid courses during flares.

Topical NSAIDs, such as nepafenac, have anti-inflammatory effects but are typically used for post-operative pain and inflammation rather than allergies. If comparing options for ocular inflammation with your prescriber, review agents like Nevanac® and discuss whether a steroid, NSAID, or antihistamine best fits your situation and risk profile.

For patients with combined nasal and eye symptoms, a nasal steroid can help control the overall allergy burden. An option such as Fluticasone Nasal Spray may be used alongside an ophthalmic agent to manage rhinitis and reduce triggers that spill over to the eyes.

Combination Therapy

• With antihistamine/mast-cell stabilizers: may reduce steroid exposure once symptoms are controlled.
• With lubricating artificial tears: can dilute allergens and improve comfort between doses.
• With oral non-sedating antihistamines: helpful for systemic allergy control.
• Contact lens management: limit wear during active inflammation; follow lens hygiene closely.
• Tapering or limiting duration: prescriber may adjust schedule to minimize steroid risks.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

Alrex is for patients with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis who need short-term steroid therapy. It is not designed for dry eye disease or infectious conjunctivitis. Contraindications include active viral, fungal, or mycobacterial eye infections and hypersensitivity to loteprednol or any component. Caution is needed in patients with glaucoma or a history of steroid-responsive intraocular pressure increases.

Alrex requires a valid prescription. It is not an OTC product. If you are comparing alrex price or alrex discount options, consider a larger supply when clinically appropriate. Multi-bottle purchases and periodic bulk promotions may lower the monthly cost. Turn on reorder reminders at checkout so you have time to renew your prescription before allergy season peaks.

Bausch and Lomb Alrex, also listed as alrex loteprednol etabonate ophthalmic suspension 0.2%, is a brand medication. A generic for alrex (loteprednol etabonate 0.2%) may be available depending on market supply. Supply status can vary by region and manufacturer. Check current availability when placing an order.

Authoritative Sources

Bausch + Lomb: Alrex prescribing information and product details

FDA Prescribing Information for Alrex (loteprednol etabonate)

Health Canada Drug Product Database: loteprednol listings

Order Alrex® from YouDrugstore.com: add to cart, upload your prescription, and we ship with prompt, express, cold-chain handling.

This material is educational and does not replace professional medical advice. Always follow your prescriber’s directions and the product label.