Cap Colors for Ophthalmic Medications

Eye Drop Cap Color Identification

The cap color of eye drop bottles is a standardized tool designed to help healthcare providers and patients quickly identify the type of medication contained within. This color-coding system facilitates accurate dispensing and administration, reducing the risk of medication errors. Understanding this color scheme is essential for optometrists and other eye care professionals to ensure that patients receive the correct treatment, particularly when managing multiple medications.

This system assists in:
-Reducing Medication Errors: Ensures that patients use the correct eye drops at the correct times, particularly important for those on multiple medications.
-Facilitating Communication: Enhances communication between healthcare providers by providing a quick visual reference to the type of medication.
-Improving Patient Compliance: Simplifies medication regimens for patients, making it easier to follow prescribed treatments accurately.

*AAO Recommendations
ClassColorCap
Adrenergic agonist combinationsLight Green
Adrenergic agonistsPurple
Anti-infectivesTan
Anti-inflammatory, non-steroidalGray
Anti-inflammatory, steroidsPink
Anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatorsOlive Green
Beta-blocker combinationsDark Blue
Beta-blockersYellow
Carbonic anhydrase inhibitorsOrange
CytotoxicBlack
MioticsDark Green
Mydriatics and cycloplegicsRed
Prostaglandin analoguesTurquoise