Overview

• The plan would expand which prescription‑only medicines optometrists and contact lens opticians can supply or authorise, including emergency sign‑off or local pharmacy dispensing.
• Proposed options include acetylcysteine for refractory dry eye, diclofenac sodium for post‑cataract pain and seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, and antibiotics such as azithromycin and gentamicin for bacterial infections.
• The list features atropine sulphate and homatropine hydrobromide to relax the eye for accurate testing, which could reduce hospital sight tests for children.
• Additional access covers anti‑allergy agents including azelastine, ketotifen, olopatadine and lodoxamide, plus medicines for suspected acute angle closure glaucoma and support for foreign‑body removal.
• Ministers frame the proposal as part of shifting care into communities to ease pressure on GPs and A&E, and the College of Optometrists has voiced support.