Understanding Microbiology and Contact Lens Solutions
Understanding Microbiology and Contact Lens Solutions Learn how
a greater knowledge of microbiology has helped improve the
safety and efficacy of contact lenses, solutions and
accessories. BY WILLIAM J. GLEASON, OD An article I published in
Contact Lens Spectrum in 1999 began with a discussion on the
principal objective of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA),
which is to provide a reasonable assurance of the safety and
efficacy of drugs and devices before and after they're either
approved or cleared for public distribution. The article also
discussed patient compliance following approval — a major
problem in many areas of health care, and contact lenses are no
exception. Ten years later, these discussion points are still
valid. FDA approvals can be viewed as only providing reasonable
assurance. Despite the views of plantiff lawyers to the
contrary, the FDA is unable to evaluate products for absolute
safety and efficacy. Absolute safety is unattainable b