Multipurpose solution is an all-in-one care system used to clean, rinse, disinfect, and store soft contact lenses. This solution is the most commonly used care system among soft contact lens wearers.
One of the major functions of a contact lens solution is to disinfect contact lenses to make them safe to wear. Solutions contain antimicrobial agents, which kill various pathogens including Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria.
Are all contact lens solutions the same ? Short answer- NO.
The decision of which multipurpose solution to use should be mainly based on a discussion with your eye doctor. Some solutions tend to work better with certain contact lenses.
Today , I have asked Dr. Bahareh Golbahar, Optometrist in Los Angeles , California to educate us more on this topic:
" In general, I trust the brand name solutions as they have been put through vigorous testing. In our office we mainly recommend the Opti-Free and Biotrue for soft contact lens wearers. The generic formulations, although less expensive, are oftentimes based on older formulations which may not work as well. Also with generics, the ingredients can change which may produce an allergic reaction in sensitive patients. With brand name solutions, you get a consistent product. If you are a hard contact lens wearer, I like the Boston Original or Best Advance system. "
Choosing the best contact lens solution for you is not a decision you should make yourself. During your contact lens fitting, your eye doctor will tell you which solution he or she feels is best for you.
As I tell my patients in the pharmacy, do not change lens care systems before first discussing it with your eye doctor.
Stay well and stay healthy. Dr. Naghmeh Rameshni, Pharm.D. & Dr. Bahareh Golbahar, OD.