What's the correct technique?+
Tilt your head back. Pull your lower lid down to make a pocket. Hold the bottle upside down, 1 inch above the eye — don't touch the eye or lashes. Squeeze 1 drop. Close the eye gently (don't squeeze). Press the inside corner of your eye (near the nose) for 1 minute. That last step — called 'punctal occlusion' — keeps the medicine in the eye instead of draining into your nose.
I can never tell if the drop actually went in.+
A few tricks: use a mirror. Chill the bottle in the fridge first — you'll feel the cool drop land. Or put the drop in the inner corner of your eye with it closed, then blink to draw it in (works well if you're scared of the dropper). If you're truly unsure, err on the side of assuming it didn't land — and try once more.
I have arthritis and can't squeeze the bottle.+
Ask your pharmacy about drop-assist devices — small plastic sleeves that wrap around the bottle and squeeze with a gentle press. Brands include AutoSqueeze, Autodrop, and Opticare. Most are inexpensive and covered by some insurance.
How do I keep track of multiple drops?+
Three strategies that work: (1) Tie each drop to an existing routine (with coffee, at bedtime, etc). (2) Use your phone alarm with a label for each drop. (3) Write a schedule on a fridge sticky-note and check off as you go. The harder it is to forget, the better your adherence.
How long between different drops?+
Wait at least 5 minutes between different drops (10 is safer). If you put them in back-to-back, the second drop washes out the first. Eye ointments go last because they coat the eye and block absorption of anything after.
Refrigerate or room temperature?+
Most drops are fine at room temp. Check your specific label. Cool drops are easier to feel when they land. Never freeze a drop bottle.
The drops sting. Is something wrong?+
Some drops sting briefly — this is usually from preservatives, not the active ingredient. If it stings badly and persistently, tell us. Preservative-free versions exist for most drops.
What if I miss a dose?+
Take it as soon as you remember — unless it's almost time for the next dose, then skip and continue normally. Never double up to 'catch up.' One missed dose rarely matters; repeated misses do.