• The conjunctival sac of the eye has a capacity of only 10 µL and an average eye drop is 25-50 µL, so 60-80% of an eye drop may overflow and enter tear (lacrimal) drainage system.

• Therefore it does not make sense to apply more than one eye drop at a time per eye and is advisable to wait for atleast 15-20 minutes before applying the next eye drop.

• The nasopharyngeal mucosa is the primary site of systemic

Peak drug levels typically occur much more rapidly (similar to an

intravenous bolus) than with oral administration. Absorption

through the nasopharyngeal mucosa also avoids a first pass

through the liver and for some drugs this will increase

the proportion of drug reaching the systemic circulation. Timolol,

which exhibits extensive first pass metabolism is such a case.

The drops can act as a systemic “bolus” – an infusion of the drug

Into the   bloodstream. Only 1-7% of the eye drop enters the eye

Through the cornea. This is sufficient to have the desired effect of

lowering intraocular pressure. Approximately 80% of the drug

reaching the tear (lacrimal)duct is absorbed systemically, meaning

that it enters the bloodstream. This is responsible for many of the

side effects associated with glaucoma treatment medications

administered through eye drops.

It is for these reasons Mr Raj would advise closure of the eye lids

for a few minutes after application of drops and also to put gentle

pressure on the skin over the inner corner of your eye.

For private patients & referrals

Mr Akash Raj 

Consultant Ophthalmologist, Glaucoma specialist & Cataract surgeon

Stourside Hospital (part of West midland Hospital)

60 Bradley Road

Stourbridge

DY8 1UX

01384 505 183

(Alternate:

Monday Evenings)

Appointments:

01384 912966

Private Secretary: Tara Ralph : 01384 632 636 

Mr Akash Raj

Consultant Ophthalmologist, Glaucoma & Cataract specialist.

 

For NHS Referrals through GP/Opticians

Mr Akash Raj

Consultant Ophthalmologist (Glaucoma Lead)

Russells Hall Hospital

Pensnett Road

Dudley

West Midlands

DY1 2HQ

Phone: 01384456111

Extn. 5815 (NHS Secretary: Lyn Eaton)