Why does the throat taste bitter after putting eye drops in the eyes?

When eye drops are administered, a bitter taste in the throat may occur because the medication travels through the nasolacrimal duct to the pharynx, resulting in a bitter sensation in the throat.

While applying eye drops, the solution enters the lacrimal puncta and lacrimal sac, then flows into the nasolacrimal duct, which opens into the inferior nasal meatus. This allows the medication to drain into the throat via the nasal passage. Because eye drops often have a bitter taste, this can lead to a noticeable bitterness in the throat—a relatively common occurrence that generally does not require concern. If the bitter sensation is bothersome, rinsing the mouth after using eye drops may help. Additionally, pressing gently on the inner corner of the eye for a few minutes after instillation can help prevent the medication from entering the nasolacrimal duct and reduce the likelihood of a bitter taste.

It is recommended to maintain proper eye care and use eye drops only as directed by a physician to relieve eye discomfort. Long-term use should be avoided to prevent potential adverse effects on eye health.