CL reduces dryness symptoms

Contact lenses made from the silicone hydrogel material senofilcon A reduce the discomfort and dryness associated with contact lens wear, a new study claims.

Researchers in the US evaluated the clinical data from 1,092 current soft contact lens wearers to calculate the prevalence of six common symptoms associated with contact lens discomfort, including dryness and end of day irritation.

Nearly half (48 per cent) showed at least one of the six criteria. End-of-day irritation affected 31 per cent, frequent or constant dryness bothered 28 per cent, while discomfort irritated 17 per cent of participants.

Study co-author and independent clinical researcher, Robin Chalmers, who specialises in contact lens epidemiology, said that troublesome symptoms were significantly reduced when patients wore contact lenses made with senofilcon A, currently marketed under the name Acuvue Oasys with Hydraclear Plus in the UK.

'Studies have shown that contact lens wearers often discontinue lens wear due to symptoms of dryness and discomfort,' she said.

'The smoothness of this lens material may help reduce the number of people who subsequently abandon lens wear.'

The findings of the study, published in the December issue of Optometry and Vision Science and sponsored by Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, were presented at the American Academy of Optometry Annual meeting.