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Contact Lens Solutions
July 16, 2007
Just as important as a proper fitting of your contact lenses, proper on-going care of the lenses is critical for your continued comfort and safety. Recently contact lens care products have been the subject of much media attention. In the last 12 months there has been two widely publicized recalls of nationally known soft lens care products. This has been a source of great concern for patients and has prompted many inquiries to our practice. In view of this we have provided this short review in hopes of clarifying things, dispelling any misconceptions and alleviating your fears.
The two most significant recalls involved the following products. In May of 2006, Renu Multipurpose solution with Moisture Loc ( Bausch & Lomb ) was permanently removed from the marketplace due to its presumed association with Fusarium keratitis. This only affected the Moisture Loc brand, and is no longer available. Regular Renu Multipurpose solution continues to be available and is safe to use.
In May of 2007 Complete with Moisture Plus ( Advanced Medical Optics ) was voluntarily recalled due to an association with Acanthamoeba keratitis. Again, this only affected the Moisture Plus variety of Complete.
The source of concern was an increase risk of infection caused by two rare organisms, Fusarium and Acanthamoeba. Keratitis (infection of the cornea) resulting from these organisms is a very serious condition which can result in permanent vision loss. Studies have found that, in addition to the affected solutions, the patient’s lens care hygiene (or lack of ) was a major additional risk factor. In view of this we offer you the following lens care tips:
- Exercise proper hygiene; wash hands before handling lenses.
- Keep your lens care area clean.
- Do not “top off” solution. Always empty used solution from case and replace with fresh.
- Air dry case when not in use.
- Avoid using tap water to clean cases. Boiling a case is effective in sterilization.
- Lens cases can also be microwaved for 3 minutes to sterilize.
- Replace case after a maximum of 3 months, but preferably monthly.
- Remove lenses before swimming or entering hot tub.
And always remember to call your eye care practitioner if you have a red eye that persists, pain, and/or change in vision.
