Instilling Eyedrops

How to Instill Eyedrops

1. Wash your hands thoroughly.

2. If bottle has been in the refrigerator, warm it by gently rolling it between the palms of your hands.

3. Shake bottle as directed.

Image depicting how to administer drops

4. With your finger touching below (not on) your lower lid, gently pull down so that the lower eyelid creates a pocket.

5. Tilt your head back, and with your other hand hold the dropper close to your eye without touching it. Squeeze gently and administer the prescribed number of drops.

6. Wait 5 minutes before administering any additional drops to the same eye.

It is important to always follow the directions given to you by your physician. It is important not to skip doses and not to use the medication more often or longer than prescribed. If you have any barriers to getting your medication, please tell us about them so that we can work together to find solutions.

The information contained within these pages is intended for informational purposes only and does not take the place of consulting a physician.
Created by and for New York Cornea in association with Columbia University Medical Center.
Caring for your corneas since 1988.