Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Eye drops
Introduction
Eye drops are saline-containing drops used as a vector to administer medication in the eye. Depending on the condition being treated, they may contain steroids (e.g. mydriatics, dexamethasone), antihistamines, sympathomimetics, beta receptor blockers, parasympathomimetics (e.g. pilocarpine), parasympatholytics (e.g. tropicamide or atropine), prostaglandins, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or topical anesthetics. Eye drops sometimes do not have medications in them and are only lubricating and tear-replacing solutions, and they can also contain anti-redness and similar chemicals.
One effect of administration of mydriatic eyedrops is intolerance to bright light.
See also
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]