Are oxymetazoline eye drops safe for those with contact lenses?

Oxymetazoline eye drops are not recommended for use with contact lenses as they can worsen eye issues if placed on the eye while wearing a soft lens, according to Drugs.com. Oxymetazoline is used to relieve minor eye irritations.

Oxymetazoline works to constrict the blood vessels of the eyes and reduce redness and swelling, as reported by Drugs.com. The medicine contains preservatives that have adverse affects on contact lenses if applied directly to them. If applied on top of the contacts and then absorbed, discoloration and potential malfunction of the soft lenses are likely. Allow a span of at least 15 minutes between the application of the eye drops and replacing the contact lens on the eye.