Eye care guide
How to use eye drops correctly
Medical reviewer Mr Mohamed Mohyudin· Last recorded site review
About this review
This page inherits the site’s previous review record. A separate, current article sign-off has not yet been recorded.
Before you start
Check the label and expiry date. Shake the bottle only if the instructions say so. If you wear contact lenses, ask whether you should remove them before drops and how long to wait before putting them back in.
Putting in a drop
A steady technique reduces waste and helps the medicine work.
- Wash hands and sit or lie with head tilted back
- Pull down the lower eyelid with a clean finger to form a small pocket
- Hold the bottle above the eye and squeeze one drop into the pocket
- Do not let the tip touch the eye, lashes or skin
- Close the eye gently; press the inner corner for one minute if advised for glaucoma drops
- Blot excess liquid with a clean tissue, not your sleeve
Several bottles or ointments
Use drops before ointments. When using more than one drop, wait about five minutes between types so the first is not washed out. If one drop runs down your cheek, you may still have received enough — do not double the dose without advice.
Storage and hygiene
Replace the cap after use. Do not share bottles. Store as directed — some drops belong in the fridge once opened. Discard opened bottles after the period stated on the label, even if liquid remains.
Step-by-step
- Wash your hands. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before touching the bottle or your eye.
- Check the bottle. Check the label and expiry date, and shake the bottle only if the instructions say so.
- Position yourself. Sit or lie with your head tilted back and pull the lower eyelid down with a clean finger to form a small pocket.
- Instil one drop. Hold the bottle above the eye and squeeze one drop into the pocket without letting the tip touch the eye, lashes or skin.
- Close and press. Close the eye gently for about a minute; press the inner corner if this was advised for glaucoma drops.
- Wait between bottles. If you use more than one drop type, wait about five minutes between bottles, and use drops before ointments.
- Store safely. Replace the cap, store as directed, and discard opened bottles after the period stated on the label.
Frequently asked questions
What if I miss a drop?
Take the next dose at the usual time. Do not use extra drops to catch up unless your prescriber tells you to.
Can eye drops sting?
Some cause brief stinging or blurring. Persistent pain, swelling or worsening redness should be reported to your eye-care team.
How do I help someone else use drops?
Have them look up while you pull down the lower lid and place one drop in the pocket. Wipe away spillage and wash hands afterwards.
Sources for this information
These references support the information on this page. Follow the linked source for its full context.