How to Use Eye Drops Properly

Whether prescribed for a medical condition or bought over the counter for dry eyes, eye drops only work if they actually get into your eye. Many people find administering drops surprisingly tricky, and poor technique can mean medication doesn't work as effectively as it should. A few tips can make the process much easier.

Start by washing your hands thoroughly. You'll be touching the area around your eyes, so clean hands help prevent introducing bacteria. If you wear contact lenses, check whether you should remove them before using the drops. Some drops can be used with lenses in place, but many cannot.

Tilt your head back or lie down. Looking up at the ceiling gives the best angle for drops to enter your eye. Using a mirror can help you see what you're doing, though some people find it easier without one.

With your non-dominant hand, gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. This gives the drop somewhere to land rather than rolling off the closed eye. Hold the dropper bottle in your other hand, positioning it above your eye but not touching it. Touching the dropper tip to your eye or eyelids can contaminate the bottle.

Look up, away from the dropper, and squeeze out a single drop. The drop will fall into the pocket created by your pulled-down eyelid. Release your lower lid and close your eye gently. Don't squeeze your eye tightly shut or blink rapidly, as this can pump the drop out through your tear drainage system before it's absorbed.

For maximum absorption, press gently on the inner corner of your closed eye, near your nose, for a minute or two. This blocks the drainage channel and keeps the drop in contact with your eye longer. This is particularly important for medicated drops like those for glaucoma.

If you need to use multiple different drops, wait at least five minutes between each one. Applying them immediately after each other simply washes the first drop away.

If you struggle with drops despite trying these techniques, talk to your optometrist or pharmacist. Alternative formulations like gels or ointments might be available, or devices that help steady your hand and aim the drop might be suitable.