What is a common effect of eye drop preservatives that patients might experience?

Eye drop preservatives are often used to prolong the shelf life of the medication and prevent microbial growth. However, a common effect that many patients experience is eye irritation. This irritation can manifest as redness, itching, burning, or a gritty sensation in the eyes. Preservatives are typically added to multi-dose eye drop bottles but can be harmful to the ocular surface and lead to adverse reactions, especially with long-term use.

Patients with conditions requiring frequent instillation of eye drops may particularly notice these effects. In cases where a preservative is causing discomfort, healthcare providers may suggest preservative-free formulations, which have been shown to reduce irritation and improve patient compliance with their treatment regimens.