Particles, compositions, and methods that aid particle transport in mucus are provided. In some embodiments, the compositions and methods may involve modifying the surface coatings of particles with poloxamer 407, poloxamer 338 or poloxamer 237. The particles may comprise a pharmaceutical agent such as loteprednol etabonate. The pharmaceutical composition including such particles is well-suited for ophthalmic applications, and may be used for delivering pharmaceutical agents to the front of the eye and/or the back of the eye.