The Basics
What is Rimexolone?
Corticosteroid used to treat eye inflammation.
Brand names for Rimexolone
Vexol
How Rimexolone is classified
Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Corticosteroids – Ophthalmic, Glucocorticoids
Rimexolone During Pregnancy
Rimexolone pregnancy category
Category CNote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Rimexolone while pregnant
Rimexolone has been shown to be teratogenic and embryotoxic in rabbits following subcutaneous administration at the lowest dose tested (0.5 mg/kg/day, approximately 2 times the recommended human ophthalmic dose). Corticosteroids are recognized to cause fetal resorptions and malformations in animals. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. VEXOL® 1% (rimexolone ophthalmic suspension) should be used in pregnant women only if the potential benefit to the mother justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Taking Rimexolone While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Rimexolone?
No information is available on the ophthalmic use of rimexolone during breastfeeding. Because absorption from the eye is limited, ophthalmic rimexolone would not be expected to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. To substantially diminish the amount of drug that reaches the breastmilk after using eye drops, place pressure over the tear duct by the corner of the eye for 1 minute or more, then remove the excess solution with an absorbent tissue.
Maternal / infant drug levels
No information is available on the ophthalmic use of rimexolone during breastfeeding. Because absorption from the eye is limited, ophthalmic rimexolone would not be expected to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. To substantially diminish the amount of drug that reaches the breastmilk after using eye drops, place pressure over the tear duct by the corner of the eye for 1 minute or more, then remove the excess solution with an absorbent tissue.
Possible effects of Rimexolone on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Rimexolone
Prednisolone.
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/None listed
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
