Storage advice

Manufacturer’s instructions should be followed when it comes to storage but requirements may differ according to whether or not they are opened and in current use.

Expiry dates matter, both those on the bottle, and the time elapsed since opening – for most products the latter is 28 days. Writing the date of opening on the bottle is a sensible measure and encourage the patient to return old used or expired products to the pharmacy.

Remind the patient of the need for good hygiene: as well as washing hands before using eye drops, products should be stored with lids on to prevent contamination.