Adding a good rub to your contacts `

In the Health Answers column in the Boston Globe (6/30), Judy Foreman answers a question from a reader who asked, "Do you have to rub contact lenses to clean them if your cleanser is 'no rub?'" Foreman explains that, "according to a new consumer 'reminder' from the" FDA, the agency "is now advising lens wearers to rub as well as rinse lenses, a policy supported by the...American Optometric Association." The FDA's "recommendations apply even if" a "product is advertised as 'no rub,' and also include throwing out cleansers by the discard date, washing...hands when handling lenses," and letting the "lens storage case to dry (upside down, so water can drain) when lenses are removed." Just "this month, the FDA wrote to the nine companies allowed to market 'no rub' lenses," asking them to "'come in' to discuss the new data on lens cleaning," according to "Dr. Dan Schultz, director of the FDA Center for Devices and Radiological Health." (courtesy AOA)

It is very interesting that contact lens companies aren't broadcasting the 'no rub' feature like they used to. It may still be on some packaging but the font is not as large and some places have removed the statement all together.

New anti-itch drop on its way

Following a previous AP story, the AP (6/27) reported that on Friday, June 26, the seven experts in the Food and Drug Administration's ophthalmic panel voted unanimously that Bepreve [bepotastine besilate], "an anti-itching drug from eye-care company Ista Pharmaceuticals, is safe and effective." The panel's vote "amounts to a recommendation for approval. Although the FDA is not required to follow the group's advice, it usually does."
Dow Jones Newswires (6/27, Favole) explained that "ISTA wants FDA approval to market Bepreve to people with conjunctivitis, or pink eye, caused by allergies." According to FDA officials, "the agency found no serious side effects with Bepreve. The most common side effect was a distorted sense of taste after getting the drops, which was reported in 20 percent of patients."
Reuters (6/27, Richwine) noted that if the FDA gives final approval to Bepreve, the drug would be available by prescription only.

Having another drop on the market can only help with allergies. As an allergy sufferer, I enjoy the relief that comes from these allergy drops. Lowering the inflammation from allergies even helps out with my dry eye. I'm excited to have one more tool to help with this trouble.

Another Testimonial

I noticed that when reading my arms seemed to be getting shorter and shorter and the words seemed blurry. I thought it might be the heat here in St.George causing shrinkage in my limbs but my wife assured me that I was OK but I should have my eyes checked. I went to Clear View Eye Care to see if there was indeed a problem. After meeting with the helpful staff and Dr. Wallace they were able to provide me with a pair of reading glasses to suit my needs. I was very happy with the quality eyewear and service that I received and would recommend them to anyone. -- Tom Hooker

How to look at your computer. `

Orthokeratology Fills the Gap

The procedure has been around for years but only recently has orthokeratology become more systematic and predictable. New techniques using computer aided design (CAD) allow precise corneal mold designs.

Orthokeratology provides a service that fills needs that cannot be met by other procedures. There are many people who would rather not do LASIK. LASIK is a great surgery and has helped many people. Not everyone wants to undergo surgery. Orthokeratology uses a retainer lens to reshape the eye and is therefore non-surgical.

Others would prefer something that is not permanent. LASIK is permanent and cannot be changed. Enhancements can be performed if necessary but there is a limit to the number of enhancements that can be performed. Orthokeratology can be easily adjusted if the prescription changes for any reason.

Some people would like to undergo surgery but cannot due to age restrictions. With orthokeratology, children can enjoy clear vision through the day without the need for surgery.

At Clear View we are proud to offer this service. If you have any questions about this exciting procedure give us a call for a free consultation.