Tag: Preservatives

While most eye drops are safe when used as directed, they can cause a range of side effects, from mild, temporary discomfort to more severe reactions. A 2022 research review highlighted that even multi-use eye drop bottles can become contaminated with bacteria after just one week, increasing the risk of infection and adverse effects.

Citric acid, a naturally occurring compound found in citrus fruits, is a cornerstone of pharmaceutical formulation due to its versatility and safety. It plays multiple critical roles as an inactive ingredient, and a wide variety of common medications contain citric acid.

While over-the-counter (OTC) artificial tears like Refresh Tears are widely used, many patients who use eye drops frequently or have severe dry eye report that preservatives can cause significant irritation. Understanding the disadvantages of Refresh Tears is crucial for safe, long-term relief from dry eye symptoms.

Studies have shown that used eye drop containers can have contamination rates ranging from 2% to as high as 72.8%, depending on various factors [1.9.2, 1.9.3]. This significant risk of contamination is a primary reason behind the guidance on why to discard eye drops after 90 days, or often sooner, to prevent serious eye infections.

Most experts agree that multi-dose eye drops should be thrown away within one month (28-30 days) after opening [1.3.3, 1.2.6]. This strict guideline exists primarily to protect your eyes from harmful contamination and ensure the medication remains effective. So, why do eye drops have to be discarded after 4 weeks?

According to the FDA, contaminated eye drops and washes have been linked to serious eye infections, underscoring the critical need for proper product hygiene. This is the central principle behind why does Optrex eye bath need to be discarded after a specific period, usually 28 or 90 days after opening, regardless of how much solution remains.