How Do I Know If There’s an Issue?Įxpired solution can cause serious eye irritation. If you’re a person who buys in bulk, be sure you check expiration dates before you purchase or open a new solution bottle. Expired solution could be contaminated and lead to severe bacterial or fungal infections, vision loss or in extreme cases, even blindness. You may feel guilty for throwing away a full bottle of solution, but do NOT be tempted to use solution that is expired just so it’s not wasted. This can make wearing contacts extremely uncomfortable. When contact solution “goes bad,” the chemicals that kill bacteria don’t function properly, allowing impurities to build up on the lenses. Exposure to the sun or heat can also speed the breakdown of solution. Being “effective” means that the solution will maintain a stable pH (acidity) and not “go bad” by becoming acidic or alkaline (basic) – just like how food or wine goes bad ( fda.gov). If a contact solution has been tested and approved as effective for 2 years, the expiration date with be no later than 2 years in the future. What Does the Expiration Date Mean?Ĭompanies determine expiration dates based on tests performed by the FDA. One part of this regulation requires companies to include expiration dates on contact solution bottles. This ensures that contacts are used safely and effectively ( Medscape). Because you use your contact lenses without being overseen by a medical professional, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates them as medical devices.
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