Ophthalmologist Questions Ophthalmologist

Can you use eye drops with contacts in?

I am a 34 year old female. I want to know can you use eye drops with contacts in?

9 Answers

If you have daily disposable contacts then yes you can use most drops with them as you are throwing them out at the end of the day. If extended wear then you can use preservative free drops. Be careful using drops that reduce your ocular immune response as there is a higher risk of infection with contacts. Usually if this is the case the doctor is watching you.
You can use drops with contacts that are specifically made for use with contact lenses. There are specific artificial tears that you can use with your contact lenses. Otherwise, most drops should be used without your contact lenses.
Yes. Though ideally one should remove the contracts for 15 minutes. Probably ok especially with daily wear lenses. 1 week disposables probably ok.
You shouldn’t use medicated drops with contacts in unless directed by an eye care professional. Liquid tears or wetting drops are safe to use with contacts.

Alan J. Franklin, MD, PhD
https://coopervision.com/blog/are-your-eye-drops-ok-to-use-with-contact-lenses
Frank Cao
You should remove your contact lenses before using any drops.
Yes, artificial tears help lubricate the contacts and the eyes.
Yes, if there's no preservatives inside.
Yes, only special kinds. Example, blink for contact lenses.