Contact Lens Wearers Should Use Compatible Cleaning Solution

Contact lens wearers should use compatible cleaning solutions. Sounds obvious, doesn’t it? But I realized that my eye care professional never recommended a specific product or brand.

Over the years, he has prescribed for me at least four different contact lenses (ACUVUE 2, ACUVUE ADVANCE, ACUVUE OASYS, O2OPTIX). My parting goodie bag from each annual eye exam typically includes a replacement contact lens case, a trial size bottle of some solution and a coupon. So I asked a few other contact lens wearers and they all reported similar experiences.

For years, I’ve been buying solutions that offer the best bang for the buck at Costco. But I’ve become enlightened. Here’s why…

April 2006, Bausch and Lomb suffered a public relations nightmare surrounding their delayed product recall of ReNu with MosturLoc. It created consumer awareness how poor maintenance habits and possible contaminants may lead to serious eye infections.

June 2007, Advanced Medical Optics (AMO) issued a product recall of AMO Complete MoisturePlus contact lens solution due to a high risk of eye infection among users of the product.

Supposedly, the issue of bio-compatibility is being taken more seriously now and your eye doctor should have access to updated industry information to make better recommendations.

If you, your spouse or your child wears contact lenses, consider the following:

• Be extra vigilant to follow the maintenance advice of the eye doctor and manufacturer to keep your eyes healthy.
• Check out the compatibility stain grids below.
• Use a reputable brand of cleaning solution. (Don’t substitute tap water or spit.)
• If you or someone you know is experiencing corneal staining or discomfort, consider testing a different contact lens cleaning solution to see if the condition improves.
• Consult with your eye care professional.

Your eyes are precious. Don’t take short cuts that could affect your eye health.
-BD

Related Links:

Hydrogel / Silicon Hydrogel contact lens and multipurpose solution stain grid

Japanese study of Silicon Hydrogel and multipurpose contact lens solution.