Introduction
Eye drops are sterile preparations that use to treat eye problems. There are many types of eye drops in the market, each with different indication. Below are examples of eye drops and their purposes:
|
Eye problem/condition
|
Eye drop content
|
|---|---|
| Eye infections (example: conjunctivitis, cornea ulcer, etc) | Antibiotic, antifungal or steroid |
| Post eye operation | Antibiotic, artificial tears |
| Contact lenses user | Lubricating/moisturising agent |
| Dry eye | Lubricating/moisturising agent |
| Eye allergy (red, itchy, watery eye) | Antihistamine, artificial tears |
Correct steps to apply eye drop
These steps are applicable for majority of eye drops available in the market.
Picture from: wikihow.com
- Wash your hand with soap and water.
- Use clean cloth or tissue to gently wipe away any dirt from your eye area.
- Remove the cap from the bottle and place it in a clean place. Avoid touching the dropper tip.
- Tilt your head back.
- Gently pull down your lower eyelid with your index finger until enough space to put the drops.
- Position the eye drop container about ¾ inches above lower eyelid to avoid touching the dropper tip against your eye.
- Gently squeeze the container until a drop falls into the eye pocket.
- Close your eyes but avoid squeezing your eye lids. Keep your eyes shut for at least 2-3 minutes.
- Use a clean tissue to gently blot liquid that forms on the outside of your eye or cheek. Replace and tighten the cap on the dropper bottle.
- Wait for 5 minutes before applying the second drop. Repeat all the above steps.
Side Effects
You may or may not experience side effects after applying eye drop. A few common side effects are as follows:
- Eye irritation(tingling/burning sensation of eye).
- Eye itchiness /redness
- Dizziness or headache.
- Blur vision.
- Watery eye and feel uncomfortable.
Storage
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Tighten the cap on the dropper bottle after using.
- Store eye drop at temperature recommended by manufacturer, eg fridge, room temperature,as stated on the eye drop bottle.
- Protect from direct sunlight and heat.
Reminder
- Follow instructions on the bottle carefully.
- Expiry date of an eye drop stated on the label of the bottle. Throw a way expired eye drop, one (1) month after date of first opening or as advised on the label.
- Immediately visit your doctor if you develop any allergy after using eye drops.
- Consult your pharmacist before buying or using commercial eye drops from pharmacy store.
References
- http://www.wikihow.com/Use-Eye-Drops
- Product leaflet
- MOH Drug Formulary 2009
| Last Reviewed | : | 14 Jun 2016 |
| Writer/Translator | : | Nazedah Ain bt. Ibrahim |
| Accreditor | : | Munira bt. Muhammad |
