Eye specialists have warned pregnant women against using eye drops without proper medical advice, stressing that some medications could affect unborn babies if wrongly used.
The experts explained that many people mistakenly believe eye drops only work inside the eyes and do not enter the body’s system. However, they said eye medications can be absorbed into the bloodstream just like tablets or injections.
According to the specialists, certain substances found in eye drops may pose risks during pregnancy, especially when used without a doctor’s prescription.
Speaking with PUNCH Healthwise, clinical optometrists advised pregnant women experiencing eye discomfort to avoid self-medication and instead seek professional medical attention before using any eye treatment.
They noted that hormonal changes during pregnancy can sometimes cause dry eyes or irritation, leading many women to buy over-the-counter eye drops without knowing the possible dangers involved.
A Clinical Optometrist at Vedic Lifecare Hospital in Lagos, Dr Prisca Onianwa, warned that no eye medication should be considered harmless during pregnancy.
She explained that all medications — including eye drops — enter the body system and may affect both the mother and unborn child.
“Thinking that eye drops are not going into your system is wrong because that is how the medication works,” she said.
The specialist further stressed that different eye drops have different safety guidelines depending on whether the patient is pregnant, breastfeeding, a child, or an adult.
She advised pregnant women not to walk into pharmacies and buy eye drops without proper diagnosis and prescription from a qualified doctor.
Onianwa also called on authorities to properly enforce prescription policies to reduce the indiscriminate sale of eye medications across the country.
Another optometrist and Managing Director of Ultra Eye Clinic, Dr Jideofor Akunne, also warned Nigerians against sharing eye medications or using expired eye drops.
According to him, misuse of eye medications can trigger allergic reactions, worsen health conditions, and in severe cases even lead to blindness.
He urged Nigerians to avoid self-medication entirely and to go for regular eye examinations for early detection of eye problems.
Health experts say the safest option for pregnant women experiencing any eye issue is to consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication.
Source: PUNCH Healthwise interviews with eye specialists.
