Eye drops: how to use them, choose them, and stay safe

Can't get a drop in without blinking or feeling stinging? You're not alone. Eye drops are simple in theory but tricky in practice. This guide cuts to what matters: the main types of drops, which ones you can buy over the counter, how to use them without contaminating the bottle, and when you need a doctor's help.

Types of eye drops and when to pick them

There are a few common groups:

• Artificial tears — for dryness and irritation. Look for preservative-free if you use them more than 4 times a day.
• Antihistamine/anti-redness drops — fast relief for allergy itching. Antihistamine drops are better than plain vasoconstrictors for long-term use.
• Antibiotic drops — prescription only, for bacterial infections. Finish the full course even if symptoms improve.
• Steroid drops — reduce inflammation but can raise eye pressure and risk infection; use only under supervision.
• Glaucoma drops — prescribed to lower eye pressure; follow dosing exactly to protect vision.

Practical tips for putting drops in

Follow these steps and you’ll miss less and waste less product: tilt your head back or lie down, pull the lower lid down with a finger to form a small pocket, look up, squeeze one drop into the pocket, close your eyes gently, and press the inner corner (near the nose) for about 60 seconds to limit systemic absorption. Don’t touch the bottle tip to your eye or lashes; that’s how contamination happens.

If you need more than one type of drop, wait about 5 minutes between different medicated drops. If you’re using a gel or ointment, wait 10–15 minutes before putting lenses back in, and expect temporary blurred vision.

Using drops with contact lenses? Remove lenses if the bottle warns against them. Many preservative-containing drops can irritate lenses or trap preservative in the eye. When in doubt, take lenses out and put them back 10–15 minutes after drops.

Preservative-free single-dose vials are best when you use drops often, have sensitive eyes, or need long-term treatment. Bottles with preservatives are fine for short-term or occasional use.

Watch for side effects: mild burning or blurring is common for a moment. Stop and see your eye doctor if you get severe pain, sudden vision change, lots of discharge, or an allergic reaction like swelling.

Storing and handling: keep bottles tightly closed, store per label (some need room temp, some refrigeration), and discard after the expiry or number-of-days recommendation on the label—usually 28 days for many opened bottles unless stated otherwise.

Questions about which drop is right for you? Ask your pharmacist or eye doctor. If your symptoms don’t improve in 48–72 hours, or you have severe pain or vision loss, get medical help fast.

Want quick reminders? Keep single-dose artificial tears in your bag, set a phone alarm for glaucoma drops, and never share bottles. Small habits like these cut risk and make treatment work better.