How to Use Eye Drops

The use of eye drops is an important part of the treatment of many eye disorders. Even the most effective medication, however, will not provide the best results unless it is properly and regularly administered.

Here are some important tips to help you administer eye drops for maximum effectiveness:

Step 1:

First wash and dry your hands.

Step 2:

Tilt your head back. With the index finger of one hand, pull down the lower lid of the affected eye.

Step 3:

With the other hand, tilt the container and dispense the drop into the corner of the eye near the nose using the nose or cheek as a brace.

Step 4:

Gently blink several times to spread the medication over the entire surface of the eye. Absorption of the medication can be improved, and the safety of the drops enhanced, if you place your finger gently over the corner of the eye near the nose after application of the medication. Placing the finger in this area prevents rapid flow of the medicine out of the eye through the tear drainage system.