How to Use Eye

Ointments and Gels Properly

(Using a mirror or having someone else give you the eyedrops may make this procedure easier.)

1 5
Wash your hands Tilt your head forward slightly.
thoroughly with
soap and water.

6
While tilting your
2 head back, pull
Avoid touching the tip of the tube down the lower
against your eye or anything else — lid of your eye
the medication and its container must with your index
be kept clean. finger to form a
pocket.

3 7
Holding the tube between your thumb Squeeze ribbon of ointment or gel into
and forefinger, place it as near to your the pocket made by the lower eyelid.
eyelid as possible without touching it. Remove your index finger from the
lower eyelid.

4
Brace the remaining fingers of that
hand against your face.

Copyright 2014, American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, displayed, modifi ed, or
distributed without the express prior written permission of the copyright holder. For permission, contact safemedication@ashp.org.
How to Use Eye
Ointments and Gels Properly
(continued)

8 10
Blink your eye gently; then close your Replace and tighten the cap right away.
eye for 1 to 2 minutes.

11
Wash your hands
to remove any
medication.

9 Remember
With a tissue, wipe any excess
• Follow directions carefully
ointment or gel from the eyelids and
• Do not miss doses
lashes. With another clean tissue, wipe
• Your eyesight may be cloudy after using
the tip of the tube clean.
the ointment or gel
• Store medications out of reach of children

Copyright 2014, American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, displayed, modifi ed, or
distributed without the express prior written permission of the copyright holder. For permission, contact safemedication@ashp.org.