Enzyme Preparations: These preparations are weekly-use tablets or solutions that remove stubborn protein buildup on lenses. They can lengthen the useful life of lenses. Some lenses require disinfection after an enzyme cleaning. "Planned-replacement lenses" (lenses replaced at frequent intervals) usually do not require enzyme cleansing because they are replaced before protein builds up to troublesome levels. Brand names and ingredients: Complete Weekly Enzymatic Cleaner for Soft Contact Lenses (subtilisin A). Opti-Free Enzymatic Cleaner (pancreatin). Boston One Step Liquid Enzymatic Cleaner (proteolytic enzyme, glycerol).

Wetting Solutions: These preparations for hard and RGP lenses create a cushion between the eye and the lens and improve comfort. Brand names: Liquifilm Wetting Solution for Comfortable Hard Contact Lens (polyvinyl alcohol with hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, edetate disodium, sodium chloride, benzalkonium chloride). Barnes Hind Wetting & Soaking Solution (octylphenoxy ethanol, povidone, polyvinyl alcohol, propylene glycol, sodium chloride, hydroxyethylcellulose, edetate disodium, chlorhexidine gluconate).

Rewetting Solutions: These preparations moisten lenses while they are still in the eye. Brand names and ingredients: Boston Rewetting Drops (cationic cellulose derivative polymer, polyvinyl alcohol, hydroxyethylcellulose, chlorhexidine gluconate, edetate disodium. Opti-Free Rewetting Drops for Disposable Soft Contact Lenses (citrate buffer, sodium chloride, edetate disodium, polyquaternium-1).

Combination Preparations: These products perform several functions. For example, some kits are used for cleaning, wetting and soaking; others are used for disinfecting, rinsing and storing.

Brand Names: Pure Eyes Dual-Action Contact Lens Cleaner & Rinse, Solo Care Multi-Purpose Contact Lens Solution, Comfortcare GP Wetting & Soaking Solution, CIBA Vision AOSept Contact Lens Disinfectant & Neutralizer Solution, Lens Express Multi-Purpose Solution

Some solutions are used with two rarely used disinfecting methods: heat and ultrasound. In the heat method, lenses are first cleaned, then placed in a lens case containing saline solution. The lens case, in turn, is placed in a heating apparatus to increase the temperature of the solution and kill germs. In the ultrasound method, the solution undergoes cavitation, the rapid formation and collapse of bubbles, to clean the lens. Ask your physician or pharmacist for further information if you are interested in either of these methods.

Reference: FDA Prescribing Information