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It is important to remember that all medicines, including eyedrops, can cause side effects. Some side effects caused by eyedrops are local, which means they affect just the eyes. Examples of local side effects include redness of the eye, eye irritation or blurred vision.

At times the eyedrops are so important to your vision that you may have to tolerate some mild side effects in order to treat the condition.

Most of the medication in eyedrops stays in or near the eyes. A small amount affects the rest of the body. The drug enters the bloodstream through mucous membranes lining the surface of the eye, the tear drainage system, and nose.

Once in your bloodstream, the eyedrops can cause side effects in other parts of the body. Such side effects can include slow heart rate, dizziness and headache. In general, however, there is less risk of side effects with eyedrops than with oral medicines.

Allergies

If you are allergic to any medications, be sure to tell your ophthalmologist (Eye M.D.). Some eyedrops are related to other drugs, and may cause similar problems.

Any medicine can cause an allergic reaction or allergy. Even nonprescription eyedrops can cause a reaction. They often contain chemical preservatives.

If your eyes or eyelids become red, itchy or swollen after you begin using an eyedrop, call your Eye M.D.

Eyedrops During an Examination

Dilating Drops

Your Eye M.D. uses eyedrops to dilate, or enlarge, the pupils of the eye. This allows your doctor to examine the inside of your eye.

Driving may be difficult after your eyes have been dilated. Ask your doctor whether you need to make arrangements for a ride home after an eye exam.

Anesthetic Drops

Anesthetics are painkillers. They numb the eyes within a few seconds. These drops should be used only in the doctor's office and never at home. Repeated use at home can harm the surface of the eye, leading to an infection or serious scarring of the cornea.

Nonprescription Eyedrops

You can buy many eyedrops over the counter without a prescription. These eyedrops may still contain medications.

Always follow the directions on the package and the instructions of your physician. Watch for symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Artificial tears are drops that can soothe irritated or dry eyes. You can use them as often as needed. Eyedrops without preservatives are also available.

Decongestant eyedrops contain a medicine that whitens the eyes by shrinking, or constricting, blood vessels. These drops don't improve the health of your eye. They do make the eye appear less red.

If you use these eyedrops infrequently and for a short time, they are usually not harmful. If you use them often, your eyes may become even more red and irritated after you stop.

Prescription Eyedrops

Steroid (Corticosteroids) Eyedrops

These eyedrops are extremely potent and should be used only under your Eye M.D.'s guidance. Using them for an eye problem without telling your doctor is dangerous.

Corticosteroids reduce your eye's ability to fight infection and to repair injury. Using them over time can lead to glaucoma or cataracts, which can cause loss of vision.

In spite of the risks, the benefits of using steroids are so important in treating certain conditions that they must be prescribed. The generic names of common corticosteroids are:

• Prednisolone
• Dexamethasone
• Hydrocortisone
• Fluoromethalone
• Medrysone
• Rimexolone

Eyedrops to Treat Infection

Your Eye M.D. may prescribe eyedrops if you have an infection that can be treated by a certain medication. Not all "red" or "pink" eyes necessarily mean an infection is present.

No single medicine is effective against all types of infection. Some infections cannot be treated with any available eyedrop.

Once treated for an eye infection, you should notice improvement in your condition within several days. If your condition becomes worse while you are using the eyedrops, call your Eye M.D.

Using Medications Wisely

When your physician prescribes any medication for you, you should always be aware of the following important information:

* Know the name of the medicine. Medications may have a generic name as well as a brand name. The generic name is in fine print on the label.

* Know how often you need to take the medicine.

* Call your Eye M.D. if you are unclear as to how to use the new medication or if you have questions.

* If uncomfortable symptoms occur when using eyedrops, you should call your Eye M.D.

Sometimes your ophthalmologist can prescribe a different medication or suggest a different method of treating the problem.