Eye drops are saline-containing drops used as a vector to administer medication in the eye. Depending on the condition being treated, they may contain steroids (e.g. mydriatics, dexamethasone), antihistamines, sympathomimetics, beta receptor blockers, parasympathomimetics (e.g. pilocarpine), parasympatholytics (e.g. tropicamide or atropine), prostaglandins, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or topical anesthetics. Eye drops sometimes do not have medications in them and are only lubricating and tear-replacing solutions, and they can also contain anti-redness and similar chemicals.

One effect of administration of mydriatic eyedrops is intolerance to bright light. Excess and overfrequent application of eyedrops can often discourage the eyes to make tears naturally, resulting in an increasing reliance on them.^{[citation needed]}

[edit] See also

• Carboxymethyl cellulose
• Mydriasis
• Refractive error
• Visine
• Artificial tears

v • d • e Route of administration / Dosage forms Oral digestive tract: Tablet · Capsule · Orally disintegrating tablet · Elixir respiratory tract: Inhaler (Metered-dose, Dry powder) · Nebulizer Sublingual administration ENT Eye drop · Ear drop Transdermal Ointment · Cream · Transdermal patch · Lotion · Liniment · Gel · Shampoo Injection Subcutaneous · Intravenous · Intramuscular · Intrathecal Vaginal Pessary (vaginal suppository) · Vaginal ring · Douche · Intrauterine device Rectal Suppository · Enema

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