Missing an eye drop can happen to anyone. You may get distracted, fall asleep early, leave your medication at home, or simply forget whether you already used it. The important thing is knowing what to do next—and how to prevent one missed dose from becoming a regular pattern.

Based on guidance from glaucoma specialist Rohit Krishna, M.D., published by the Glaucoma Research Foundation, here is what you should know about missed glaucoma eye drops.*

What Should You Do When You Remember?

The Glaucoma Research Foundation provides the following general guidance:

• If you miss a morning dose, use it later in the day when you remember.
• If you miss an evening dose, use it the next morning when you remember.
• After that, return to your regular medication schedule.

However, missed-dose instructions can vary depending on the medication and how often you have been told to use it. Check the instructions on your prescription label or the information included with your medication. If you are unsure—especially if your next scheduled dose is approaching—call your ophthalmologist or pharmacist.

Do not use extra drops to “make up” for a missed dose unless your doctor or pharmacist specifically tells you to do so. Putting more drops in your eye does not necessarily provide more protection. It may increase side effects or cause you to run out of medication early.

You should also avoid creating your own schedule. For example, do not begin using a daily medication every other day to make the bottle last longer. Glaucoma medicines are studied and prescribed according to specific dosing schedules. Using them less often than directed may prevent the medicine from controlling your eye pressure properly.

Why Taking Your Drops Consistently Matters

Most glaucoma eye drops work by lowering the pressure inside your eye. Some reduce the amount of fluid your eye produces, while others help the fluid drain more effectively.

Using your drops consistently helps keep your eye pressure within the range your doctor has set for you. Missing doses repeatedly can cause your pressure to fluctuate. Over time, poorly controlled eye pressure can increase the risk of further damage to the optic nerve and additional vision loss.

You may not be able to feel when your eye pressure changes. In fact, most forms of glaucoma do not cause pain, redness, or noticeable vision changes during the early stages. Your medication may be working even if your eyes and vision do not feel any different.

This is one reason glaucoma treatment can be challenging: the benefits are often invisible. The purpose of your drops is usually not to make your vision feel clearer. It is to help protect the vision you still have.

If you have missed several doses or have gone without your medication for multiple days, contact your eye doctor or pharmacist for advice. Be honest about what happened. This information can help your doctor understand your eye-pressure readings and decide whether your treatment plan needs to change.

Address the Reason You Missed the Dose

Forgetting occasionally is human. If missed doses are becoming common, however, it may help to identify what is getting in the way.

If you simply forget, consider connecting your drops with something you already do every day, such as brushing your teeth or eating breakfast. Phone alarms, medication-reminder apps, or a written tracking chart may also help.

Sometimes the problem is not forgetfulness. Tell your eye doctor or pharmacist if:

• You have trouble squeezing or aiming the bottle.
• The drops burn, sting, or make your eyes feel dry.
• You are confused about which drop to use or when to use it.
• You cannot afford a refill or your insurance will not cover it.
• You are running out of medication before you can refill it.
• You have difficulty opening the bottle or reading the label.

Do not use additional glaucoma drops to treat dryness. Some glaucoma medicines can contribute to dry-eye symptoms, and using more than prescribed may make the irritation worse. Ask your eye doctor whether lubricating eye drops, a different glaucoma medication, or another solution may be appropriate for you.

If cost or insurance coverage is causing you to miss doses, do not simply stop treatment. Your eye doctor may be able to prescribe a covered alternative, request an insurance exception, or connect you with financial-assistance resources.

Never stop or change your glaucoma medication without first speaking with your eye doctor. If you are experiencing a serious or unexpected reaction, contact your doctor promptly.

*Glaucoma Research Foundation. (Accessed September 2026. Last reviewed by author in April 2022). “Glaucoma FAQ: Answers to Your Questions”. glaucoma.org 

The information provided by The Glaucoma Community is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always talk with your healthcare provider before making changes to your treatment or care. The Glaucoma Community does not endorse specific treatments, providers, or products.