Eye drops are a common over-the-counter medication used to treat a variety of eye conditions such as dryness, redness, allergies, and glaucoma. Many people wonder how long eye drops last once they have been opened. The shelf life of eye drops can vary depending on the type and brand, but generally, most eye drops have a shelf life of about 28 days after opening.
Preservative-free eye drops typically have a shorter shelf life once opened, usually around 14 days. It is important to follow the instructions on the packaging and discard any eye drops that have expired. Using expired eye drops can lead to contamination and potentially cause eye infections or other complications.
To prolong the shelf life of eye drops, it is important to store them properly. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use and store them at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Additionally, avoid touching the tip of the dropper to any surface to prevent contamination.
Health Tips:
– Wash your hands before and after using eye drops
– Do not share your eye drops with others
– Do not use eye drops that have changed color or consistency
– If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using eye drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.