Is Payday (likely referring to a brand of artificial tears, possibly containing ingredients such as tetrahydrozoline) eyedrop safe for a 2-year-old child?

Payday Eyedrops for a Two-Year-Old

Payday eyedrops are safe for a 2-year-old child according to the FDA-approved labeling, which explicitly permits use in children 2 years of age and older. 1

Direct FDA Guidance

The FDA-approved directions for Payday eyedrops state: "adults and children 2 years of age and older: put 1 drop in the affected eye(s) once daily, no more than once per day" while specifically noting "children under 2 years of age: consult a doctor." 1 Since your child is exactly 2 years old, they meet the minimum age requirement for safe use without requiring physician consultation first.

Dosing Instructions

• Administer 1 drop in the affected eye(s) once daily, no more than once per day 1
• If using other ophthalmic products simultaneously, wait at least 5 minutes between each product 1
• Replace the cap after each use to maintain sterility 1

Important Administration Considerations

Proper technique is critical in young children to minimize systemic absorption and maximize safety. In children, 20-40% of eyedrop volume drains into the nasolacrimal duct and enters systemic circulation without hepatic metabolism, increasing risk of systemic side effects. 2

Key Safety Techniques:

• Apply gentle pressure to the inner corner of the eye (nasolacrimal duct) for at least 1 minute after instillation to prevent systemic absorption 2
• Use only the prescribed number of drops—excess medication increases toxicity risk without improving efficacy 2, 3
• Be prepared for administration challenges, as young children often resist eyedrop instillation 4

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Never exceed the once-daily dosing frequency, as this increases risk of adverse effects without additional benefit 1
• Do not use in children under 2 years of age without physician consultation, as the safety profile has not been established in this younger population 1
• Avoid administering multiple eyedrops simultaneously—maintain the 5-minute interval between different products 1
• Do not assume the child will cooperate easily; parents frequently report significant distress during eyedrop administration in toddlers, so consider using distraction techniques, reassurance, or gentle restraint if necessary 4

When to Seek Medical Advice

While Payday is approved for 2-year-olds, consult a physician if unusual symptoms develop after administration, as topical ophthalmic medications can cause systemic effects in young children due to their low body weight and high systemic absorption. 2, 3