Using expired eye drops can be a source of concern, as it is a common mistake. This article provides guidance on what steps to take if you find yourself in this situation. Understanding the potential implications and knowing the appropriate response is important for maintaining eye health.
Immediate Actions
If you have accidentally used expired eye drops, stop using them immediately. Gently flush your eye with clean, lukewarm water or a sterile saline solution; this action helps to rinse away any residual medication or irritants from the eye’s surface. Saline solution, a mixture of water and salt, is often preferred as it mimics the natural composition of tears. Keep your eye open as much as possible during flushing to ensure thorough rinsing. Afterward, observe your eye closely for any immediate reactions or discomfort.
Why Expired Eye Drops Pose a Risk
Using eye drops past their expiration date can be problematic for two main reasons: the degradation of their active ingredients and an increased risk of contamination. Over time, the active ingredients can break down, making the product less effective at treating the condition. This means the drops may not provide the relief or treatment needed, potentially worsening your eye condition.
Once opened, the sterile seal of eye drop bottles is broken, and the preservatives designed to prevent microbial growth can degrade. This allows bacteria or fungi to proliferate within the solution, turning the drops into a source of infection. Using contaminated drops can introduce harmful microorganisms to your eyes, which can lead to various eye infections. This risk is elevated in multi-dose bottles, which are exposed to the environment with each use.
Symptoms Requiring Medical Attention
After using expired eye drops, it is important to monitor your eyes for symptoms that may indicate a need for professional medical evaluation. These symptoms can include persistent redness, itching, burning, or discomfort. Swelling around the eye or unusual discharge are signs that warrant attention.
Blurred vision or increased sensitivity to light should prompt a visit to an eye care professional. Any sudden changes in vision or persistent pain are concerning and necessitate prompt medical attention. Do not attempt to self-diagnose symptoms, and seek prompt medical evaluation if these or any other bothersome effects occur.
Preventing Accidental Use
To prevent accidentally using expired eye drops, check expiration dates before each use. The printed expiration date indicates how long the product is safe and effective if unopened. However, once a multi-dose bottle is opened, it should be discarded within 28 days, or as specified by the manufacturer, even if the printed expiration date is further in the future. Preservative-free eye drops, in single-use vials, should be discarded immediately after one use or within 24 hours of opening.
Proper storage also contributes to maintaining the integrity of eye drops. Keeping them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures prevents the degradation of ingredients. Avoid leaving eye drops in places like a car, where temperatures can fluctuate significantly. When disposing of expired or unused eye drops, return them to a pharmacy for proper disposal rather than pouring them down the sink or toilet.