Pink eye treatment: What if I wear contact lenses?

Date Updated: 08/04/2020

Answer Section

During treatment for infectious pink eye (conjunctivitis), you'll be advised to temporarily stop wearing your contact lenses. It's OK to start wearing your contacts again once you've completed your antibiotics, your eye is no longer pink and you've completed recommended follow-up with your provider.

After treatment is complete, your doctor will likely recommend that you throw out contacts you've worn if your lenses are disposable. This can prevent you from getting a repeat infection.

If your lenses aren't disposable, disinfect them overnight and consult with your doctor if they can be used again or thrown away. Don't forget to double-check the expiration date on your lens disinfection solution to be sure it's not expired. Ask your doctor if you should discard and replace your contact lens accessories, such as your current lens case.