How long can Japanese eye drops be used after opening? The difference between the second and third categories

Speaking of eye drops, Japanese eye drops are very good and many people like to use them. Let’s see how long Japanese eye drops can be used after opening? What is the difference between the second and third categories of eye drops?

Speaking of eye drops, many people use them. Eye drops can relieve eye fatigue, and the effect is super obvious. Let's see how long Japanese eye drops can be used after opening? What is the difference between the second and third categories of eye drops:

How long can Japanese eye drops be used after opening

The shelf life of eye drops is generally one to two years, but don’t assume that opened eye drops can be used until the expiration date. Experts point out that once eye drops are opened and come into contact with the air, they should be discarded after two months even if they are not completely used up. Eye drops are medicine after all, so when the eyes are sick, antibiotics, hormones, steroids and other ingredients must be added to inhibit bacterial growth. Frequent use of eye drops can cause systemic side effects because the eye drops flow through the nasolacrimal duct (below the eye socket) to the nasal mucosa, where the drug effects are absorbed and spread throughout the body. Therefore, eye drops are suitable for short-term use to control eye diseases, but are not suitable for daily care. Dry, itchy and painful eyes are signs of sub-healthy eyes, which are caused by improper use of the eyes. They do not require medication and can be solved by using good eye care products on a regular basis.

The difference between the second and third types of eye drops

Let’s talk about Japanese medicines first. It’s not difficult to find that the packaging will be printed with words such as “Class 1 pharmaceuticals”, “Class 2 pharmaceuticals”, and “Class 3 pharmaceuticals”. What do these 1, 2, and 3 mean?

As we all know, Japan's medical regulations are very strict, and the production standards for medicines are very high. Generally, medicines are divided into three categories, namely first-class medicines, second-class medicines and third-class medicines.

1. Category I pharmaceuticals

This means that you must pay close attention to the side effects of medicines and new drugs. Such drugs can only be sold in pharmacies with pharmacists, and the pharmacists must provide consumers with detailed instructions for use of the drugs. These medicines can only be purchased in the presence of a pharmacist and with proper medical advice. Most Category I medicines are new drugs that have just been released and have side effects. For example, drugs for treating baldness are Category I medicines. In addition, mail order of these Class I drugs is prohibited.

2. Category II pharmaceuticals

Refers to drugs other than the first category that require attention to side effects. For example: medicines for colds, fevers, stomachaches, constipation, etc. Such medicines must be labeled on the instructions with the words "Must be confirmed promptly before use and must be taken strictly according to the instructions." Most general-use medicines belong to Class II medicines. Generally, Class II drugs must be sold in stores where pharmacists or registered sales personnel are stationed. Class II drugs can be purchased at most drug stores in Japan. A must-have for almost every Japanese household!

3. Category III pharmaceuticals

It refers to medicines with less possibility of side effects other than the above two categories. In principle, if the consumer does not request it, the medicine does not need to be explained. It is also the only medicine that can be sold without face-to-face sales.

The shelf life of eye drops can be 1 to 2 years, but once opened, they can only be used for 2 months. When buying, you should pay attention to the classification of the eye drops. For normal use, it is better to use those with fewer side effects.