PEBC MCQ Self-care & Minor Ailments question: regular use through the season

PEBC MCQSelf-care & Minor Ailments

GE, 35, has itchy, watery eyes and sneezing every spring. Vision is normal and there is no pain or discharge. Which eye product is most appropriate for regular use through the season?

a. An antihistamine/mast cell stabiliser drop such as ketotifen
b. Hydrocortisone eye drops from a previous prescription
c. Polymyxin B/gramicidin drops for 10 days
d. Naphazoline vasoconstrictor drops four times daily all season

Show the answer and explanation

Answer: a. An antihistamine/mast cell stabiliser drop such as ketotifen

Dual-action antihistamine/mast cell stabiliser drops (such as ketotifen or olopatadine) relieve and prevent allergic conjunctivitis itch and are suitable for seasonal use, with cool compresses and artificial tears. Topical vasoconstrictors should be limited to a few days because of rebound redness, ophthalmic corticosteroids require prescription and monitoring (glaucoma, infection), and antibiotics do not treat allergy. Source: Ketotifen ophthalmic solution product monograph (DPD, checked 2026); Small P et al. Allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis (Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol 2018;14:51).

Common mistake

Using vasoconstrictor drops long term for allergic conjunctivitis.

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