Getting the most from your eye drops
Glaucoma eye drops play an important role in protecting sight. Using them correctly helps ensure the medication can do its job of lowering eye pressure and protecting your vision.
One drop is enough
Glaucoma bottles are designed so that one drop is all your eye can hold. If you’re not sure the drop went in, it’s fine to try again.
Give the drop time to work
After putting in your eye drop, gently close your eye and press the inner corner near your nose for two minutes. This helps keep the medication in your eye and reduces drainage into the rest of the body.
Wait between different drops
If you use more than one type of eye drop, wait at least five minutes before putting in the next one. This helps prevent the first drop from being washed away.
Need extra support?
Many people find eye drops challenging, particularly if they have arthritis, reduced hand strength or difficulty aiming the bottle. If you find the process frustrating, you’re not alone. A few small adjustments can often make eye drops easier to manage.
Glaucoma NZ has information about eye drop aids and other practical resources that may help make daily eye drop use easier.
Prefer to see the technique demonstrated? Watch our step-by-step eye drop video below and click here to learn more about eye drop aids available through Glaucoma NZ.