Contact Lens Products (cont.)
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
Last Editorial Review: 6/18/2001
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Eye Care - Get information on eye care tips and eye health, disorders and treatment with OTC eye-care products, and when to see an ophthalmologist about an eye infection or condition.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Eyesight RSS