A new eyedrop dispensing bottle.
OBJECTIVE
To report a new eyedrop dispensing container that allows administration of eyedrops while the head of the patient is in the usual upright position.


METHODS
An eyedrop dispensing container with a dip tube extending to the bottom, an automatic venting mechanism, and an angulated dispensing tube was developed.


RESULTS
The problem of unwanted efflux of fluid was solved by incorporating the automatic venting mechanism. The final design includes an adjustable, angulated dispensing tube and "single structure" construction incorporating the cap. A removable cheek rest is also provided. The design allows eyedrops to be instilled while the patient's head is in the upright position and even when spectacles are being worn. A prototype 15-ml bottle delivered an eyedrop volume of 19.7+/-1.2 microl (mean +/- SD) (n = 75).


CONCLUSIONS
This new eyedrop bottle should allow precise self-administration of eyedrops by a patient in front of a mirror, without a need to change head position.
Overaker
R F
RF
Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University Medical Center, Duke University Eye Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA. overa004@mc.duke.edu
Dodge
B C
BC
Epstein
D L
DL
D016503:Drug Delivery Systems; D004349:Drug Packaging; D004867:Equipment Design; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D011187:Posture
D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions