Dr. MEGHA NAIR

Dr. Isha Gupta, Dr.Josephine Christy

Abstract

Aim:The purpose of this study is to evaluate the number of eye drops available per bottle of a various commonly prescribed ophthalmic medications. Methods: 55 different eye drop bottles were housed in a customised 3D printed force gauge apparatus designed to mimic the ball point fingertip contact. Drops were expressed in vertical position, at standard rate from each bottle and counted manually. We measured the total number of drops in a bottle and the volume of ophthalmic medication available for use. Results: A total of 55 bottles from 17 bottle designs and manufacturers were tested. 14 samples had a significant difference either in total number of drops expressed or in volume. The mean number of drops per ml was 19.3 with a range between 14.2 to 25.6. Conclusion: There is significant variability in drops and volume available thus there is need for circumspection in prescribing ophthalmic medications and to understand the compliance of patients to specific eye drops.