Eye drops refer to the saline drops, which are extensively used as the ocular administrator for the eyes. The constituents of the eye drop depend on the type of infections that they treat. They might contain steroids, sympathomimetics, antihistamines, beta receptor blockers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), parasympatholytic, parasympathomimetic, prostaglandins, antibiotics, etc. In many cases, the eye drops might not be any medicated drugs for the eyes. Instead, they are only meant for the lubrication of the eyes and also the tear-replacing solutions. As these can also be containing special antibiotics and other essential drugs, hence, it is advisable to always refer to a doctor before using one for oneself.

About the shelf-life of the eye drops

It is essential to know about the manufacturing date of any kinds of medicated products as they come with different types of expiry dates. In case the drugs have exceeded their expiry date, then the medications become harmful for the body. Almost all of the eye drops contain certain specific preservatives that prevent contamination once the bottle has been opened. But these preservatives aren't compelling enough for extended protection of the constituents of the eye drops indefinitely. The experts, i.e., the ophthalmologists, do advice to regularly dispose of the eye drop bottles once every four weeks durations. Generally, the ones that do not carry the preservatives are usually available in single-use tubes. However, in the case of the dispensers, the bottles are little oversized in nature.

Benefits of using eye drops

One of the best benefits of using an eye drop is that it provides lubrication to the interior of the human eye. In many cases, our eyes suffer from loss of moisture, which develops into eye infections. As a result, the eye suffers from itchiness and irritation. The regular usage of the eye drops reduces the irritation of the eyes as well as the itchiness to a certain extent, thereby providing the essential comfort to the eyes. During the allergy season, the eye drops can help to protect them from falling prey to the allergens considerably.

In the case of injuries and eye infections, eye drops are quite beneficial in healing quickly without any adverse effects. They maintain the proper lubrication of the internal parts of the eye, which can reduce the chances of the eyes getting scratched or damaged every by blinking. Hence, it is essential to select the source correctly to provide the maximum benefits of using the eye drops.

However, apart from the benefits, there are certain disadvantages of using eye drops for a prolonged period. As many eye drops do contain certain preservatives, hence, the usage of such eye drops should be kept under control to avoid further infections of the eye by these substances.