• Always check the label on your eye drop container before instilling your drops
• Never overmedicate
• Do not adjust the frequency and/or the number of eye drops you have been prescribed without consulting your eye health professional
• To minimise contamination, after the container has been opened, do not let the tip touch your eyes, fingers or any other surface
• Ensure you discard the eye drop container and contents after the recommended use-by-date
• If you wear contact lenses, remove them before you instil your drops. You can replace your contact lenses 15 minutes after drop instillation
• Some eye drops may sting or irritate the eye for a short time. If symptoms persist, speak to your eye care professional
• Avoid stockpiling unopened eye drops
• Remember to tell your eye health professional of any other medications you may be taking - including those you buy without prescription, as they may interact with your glaucoma medication
• Eye drops prescribed for the treatment of glaucoma are medical drugs – some may cause adverse reactions in some people. Discuss any noticeable side effects with your eye health professional.
• If applied to the skin of the eyelids before instilling drops, petroleum jelly can sometimes prevent irritation around the eyes
• If you have difficulty instilling your eye drops, consider asking someone else to instil them for you. Or contact Glaucoma Australia to check if there is a Dose Administration Aid available to assist you.
• Always store your drops at a cool, constant temperature, well away from direct sunlight
Keeping Cool
Glaucoma Australia sells FRIO Eye Drop Travel Wallets. These will keep drops cool for up to 45 hours without refrigeration and are easy to use, light, compact and re-usable. The inner wallet is activated with water and does not require refrigeration. They come in three sizes small, large and extra-large.
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