Eyedrops

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How to put eyedrops in the eye

To use eyedrops, tilt your head back, and pull the lower eyelid down with one or two fingers to create a pouch. Gently squeeze the dropper to put a drop in the pouch. Close the eye for 30 to 60 seconds to let the drop absorb. If you are putting more than 1 drop in your eye, wait at least 5 minutes between eyedrops.

For younger children, have the child lie down with the eyes closed. Place an eyedrop in the inner corner of the eye. When the eye opens, the drop will run in.

Take these safety precautions when using eyedrops:

  • Wash your hands well before and after inserting the drops. If possible, wear disposable gloves when you insert drops into someone else's eyes.
  • Be sure the dropper is clean and does not touch the eye, eyelid, lashes, or any surface.
  • If the dropper touches the eye, do not put the dropper back in the bottle. A new dropper can be purchased at a drugstore.
  • If you touch the bottle tip to the eye or the area around the eye, call your pharmacy and arrange to get another bottle of eye medicine.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.