Accidentally Using Skin Drops in Eyes: Risks and What to Do Next

Q: Accidentally Using Skin Drops in Eyes: Risks and What to Do Next

Hello： Tofacitinib is an antifungal medication commonly used for skin infections. <br>Occasionally, if it accidentally gets into the eyes, it may cause some discomfort, but since you have immediately rinsed it with clean water, this is a correct and effective emergency measure. <

If Tofu Clean (妥膚淨) gets into the eyes?

Hello, I accidentally mixed up the eye drops prescribed by my ophthalmologist with the topical medication prescribed by my dermatologist and instilled the topical medication into my eyes.
I have rinsed my eyes with clean water, and currently, there are no noticeable issues.
I would like to know if this could lead to any long-term consequences, such as blindness or other complications.

Yubin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/06/18

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: Tofacitinib is an antifungal medication commonly used for skin infections.
Occasionally, if it accidentally gets into the eyes, it may cause some discomfort, but since you have immediately rinsed it with clean water, this is a correct and effective emergency measure.
Generally, an occasional misuse is unlikely to lead to severe long-term consequences, such as blindness.
Here are some recommendations to help you feel more at ease and ensure the health of your eyes: 1.
Monitor Symptoms: Over the next few days, closely observe your eyes for any redness, swelling, pain, blurred vision, or other abnormal conditions.
If you notice any unusual symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
2.
Use Artificial Tears: You may use artificial tears to soothe eye discomfort and help further rinse away any residual medication.
3.
Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: This can help prevent potential infections or exacerbate eye discomfort.
4.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention: If you experience any severe symptoms, such as persistent pain, changes in vision, or swelling, please see an ophthalmologist for an examination right away.

Reply Date: 2024/06/18

More Info

Accidentally using skin drops in your eyes can be concerning, and it's understandable to worry about potential risks. While I cannot provide personalized medical advice, I can offer general information about the situation and what steps you should consider.

Firstly, it's important to recognize that skin medications are not formulated for ocular use. They may contain ingredients that can irritate the eyes or cause adverse reactions. Common symptoms of irritation from non-ophthalmic solutions may include redness, burning, stinging, or discomfort. In some cases, if the drops contain certain chemicals or preservatives, they could potentially lead to more severe reactions, including inflammation or allergic responses.

Since you mentioned that you rinsed your eyes with clean water immediately after the incident, this is a positive step. Flushing the eyes can help remove any residual medication and minimize irritation. However, the effectiveness of this action depends on how quickly it was done after the exposure.

Regarding your concerns about long-term effects, such as blindness, it is unlikely that a single accidental exposure to skin drops would lead to such severe outcomes, especially if you are not experiencing significant symptoms. However, it is crucial to monitor your eyes for any changes. If you notice persistent discomfort, redness, swelling, or changes in vision, you should seek medical attention promptly. An eye care professional can assess your situation and provide appropriate treatment if necessary.

In the meantime, here are some general recommendations:
1. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: Rubbing can exacerbate irritation and potentially cause further damage.

2. Use Artificial Tears: If your eyes feel dry or irritated, using preservative-free artificial tears can help soothe the discomfort.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any changes in your vision or eye comfort. If symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop, seek medical attention.

4. Consult an Eye Care Professional: If you have any lingering concerns or if your symptoms do not resolve, it is advisable to consult an ophthalmologist. They can perform a thorough examination and determine if any treatment is necessary.

5. Prevent Future Incidents: To avoid similar situations in the future, consider labeling your medications clearly and storing them separately. This can help prevent mix-ups between skin and eye medications.

In summary, while accidental exposure to skin drops in the eyes can be concerning, immediate rinsing and monitoring your symptoms are key steps to take. If any adverse symptoms develop, do not hesitate to seek professional medical advice. Your eye health is important, and timely intervention can help prevent complications.

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