Douglas J. Rhee, MD

108Identifying the best system for a patient involves evaluation of patient’s needs, the type of lenses worn, allergies, solution sensitivities,and the lens replacement schedule. The efficacy of lens care systems has been carefully evaluated by the manufacturers and approved bythe FDA as safe and effective. These systems are tested (and proven efficacious) when used all together (i.e., as a “system” not each isolatedproduct).Contact Lens Solution HypersensitivityIn any patients in whom sensitivities to ingredients are a strong possibility, the use of preservative-free care systems is strongly recommended.ALL products need to be switched to nonpreserved. Due to the hydrophilic nature of soft contact lenses, whenever these lensesare exposed to products that the patient is sensitive to, the lenses usually need to be replaced in order to solve any related problems. Thisis not typically true of rigid lenses (since they are not hydrophilic, they do not absorb the solution).Soft Contact Lens SolutionsThe products are listed in two ways - in the first section, all products are listed and divided by the type of lens care product. The categoriesof lens care products available are as follows:– Daily cleaner– Saline solution– Disinfecting solution– Enzymatic cleaners/ daily protein remover– Multipurpose (all-in-one) solutions– Rewetting/ lubricating drops