A comparison of intraocular pressure elevating activity of loteprednol etabonate and dexamethasone in rabbits.

A "Soft" corticosteroid, loteprednol etabonate I, designed based on the "inactive metabolite" concept can be used as a safe ophthalmic anti-inflammatory drug. By design, the metabolism of I follows a predicted biotransformation pathway, thus unwanted systemic side effects are avoided. Local side effects are also reduced. Accordingly, in a cross-over study I did not elevate the intraocular pressure (IOP) in rabbits, as opposed to dexamethasone.