When using corticosteroid eye drops in a patient wearing contact lenses, what is the correct morning timing relative to lens insertion?

• A. Immediately after inserting CLs
• B. 30 minutes before inserting CLs
• C. 5-15 minutes before inserting CLs
• D. At bedtime

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that a contact lens can hinder a topical steroid from reaching the cornea. To maximize drug absorption, you should give the drop time to start penetrating before the lens is placed. Instilling the corticosteroid and waiting about 5–15 minutes before inserting the lenses allows the medication to diffuse and be absorbed by the ocular surface rather than being trapped under the lens. If you insert the lens immediately after applying the drop, much of the medication can be held in the tear film or between the lens and cornea, reducing effectiveness. In the morning, the best approach is to apply the drop, wait a short interval (5–15 minutes), and then insert the contact lenses.