Why glaucoma eye drops are for life, and what to do if you cannot afford them

Why they cannot be stopped

Glaucoma damage happens without pain, and the eye looks and feels normal. That is exactly why people stop their drops: nothing seems to change. But the pressure goes back up within days of stopping, and the slow damage to the optic nerve resumes. By the time you notice a change in your sight, a lot has already been lost, and it does not come back.

If you cannot afford your drops

This is common, and it is not something to be ashamed of. Tell your eye doctor plainly. Options they can consider:

• A different drop in the same group that costs less, including well-made generic versions
• A once-daily drop instead of several bottles
• Laser treatment, called selective laser trabeculoplasty, which for some people means fewer drops or none for a time
• Surgery, when drops cannot be used reliably for any reason
• Checking whether your HMO plan covers your drops

If the drops cause side effects

Red, itchy or stinging eyes, darkening of the iris or lashes, and tiredness or breathlessness with some drops are all possible. Tell your doctor rather than stopping. There are several groups of drops, and a switch often solves it. If you have asthma or a heart condition, make sure your eye doctor knows.

Getting the most from each bottle

• One drop is enough. Extra drops just run down your cheek
• Close the eye and press on the inner corner for a minute, so more stays in the eye
• Leave five minutes between different drops
• Use them at the same times each day, linked to something you always do
• Buy the next bottle before the current one runs out
• Never use someone else's drops, or herbal or traditional mixtures, in the eye

Common questions