How to apply topical ocular medications

The most efficient way to apply topical ocular medication is to increase the volume that the 'eye' can hold by making a 'pouch' in the inferior temporal cul de sac and putting the medication in the pouch. Immediately closing the eyelids prevents the lacrimal pump from pushing the medication into the nose, thereby increasing the contact time of the drug on the anterior segment. A method to decrease systemic absorption is to keep the eyes closed for 3 minutes following the application of one drop in the pouch, and before opening the eyes, absorb with tissue as much of the medication in the inner canthus as possible. Since the 'eye' can only hold between 1/4 and 1/2 of a drop, there is no need to use more than 1 drop.