When an eye drop is placed in the eye, some of it exits through the tear drainage system called the nasolacrimal duct, located at the corner of the eye near the nose. The drug then passes through the sinuses, and is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. Unpleasant side effects can occur when the drug reaches other parts of the body, such as the heart, liver or kidneys. Side effects from some eye medications can include asthma, low blood pressure, high blood pressure, changes in heart rhythm, depression or nervousness. A simple technique, called nasolacrimal occlusion, or NLO, can prevent the drug from flowing into the drainage duct. That keeps more medicine in your eye and makes the drug more effective.
This interactive guide shows simple steps for taking glaucoma eye drop medicines using the NLO technique.
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TIP: Keep the eye drop container clean. Avoid touching the dropper against the eye or anything else. After applying drops, replace the cap right away without wiping or rinsing off the dropper.
More tips for taking glaucoma medication
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