Question

Daniel, age 72, comes to the pharmacy to refill his glaucoma eye drops. While chatting, he says, “My vision hasn’t changed in months, so I think the glaucoma is gone. I might stop using the drops after this bottle.” Which of the following is the most appropriate response?

Answer 1

Respond with empathy, ask why, and explain the facts while urging continuation and a doctor visit. For example:
"I understand — tell me more about why you want to stop. Glaucoma is a chronic disease that often has no symptoms until damage is permanent. The drops lower eye pressure to prevent further, irreversible vision loss, so stopping them on your own can be dangerous. Please keep using them and let's contact your ophthalmologist (or schedule a follow‑up) to review whether your treatment can be changed."