A Potential Alternative to Available RGP Lens Solutions

A povidone-iodine based solution may be a viable alternative to other solutions for rigid gas permeable contact lenses, according to a recent analysis. 

Investigators evaluated bactericidal and fungicidal occurrences, as well as amoebicidal properties for the new solution and 3 currently-available solutions. In particular, they assessed storage stability over 3 months. Among the results:

• FDA guidelines were achieved by all solutions.
• Activity against bacteria and fungus was not impacted by 3-month storage for any of the solutions. 
• Activity against Acanthamoeba castellani trophozoites was reduced by 1-log for the povidone-iodine solution; it was reduced nearly as much for the remaining solutions. 
• Activity against cysts was somewhat impacted, ranging between 78% and 86% reduced viability for the solutions analyzed.

Cho P, Reyes S, Boost M. Microbiocidal characterization of a novel povidone-iodine based rigid contact lens disinfecting solution. Cont Lens Anterior Eye. 2018 Dec;41(6):542-546 . doi: 10.1016/j.clae.2018.08.001.