How do you properly administer eye drops?

Administering eye drops correctly is essential to ensure optimal drug delivery, minimize systemic absorption, and reduce the risk of contamination or injury. Begin by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Tilt your head slightly backward while sitting or lying down, and gently pull down the lower eyelid with your index finger to create a small pocket—this is the conjunctival sac. With your other hand, hold the dropper or bottle vertically above the eye, taking care not to let the tip touch the eye, eyelashes, or skin. Gently squeeze the bottle to release one drop into the conjunctival sac. Avoid blinking immediately; instead, close your eyes gently for 1–2 minutes and apply light pressure with one finger to the inner corner of the eye (nasolacrimal duct) to reduce drainage into the tear duct and limit systemic absorption. If multiple drops are prescribed, wait at least 5 minutes between doses to prevent overflow and ensure adequate absorption. Never share eye drop bottles, and discard opened multi-dose bottles after the manufacturer’s recommended timeframe—typically 28 days—unless otherwise specified.