Media Release
Media release –
Alcon releases AIR OPTIX® COLORS contact lenses in plus powers for patients with hyperopia
- Plus powers added to line of AIR OPTIX® COLORS contact lenses, expanding product offering to patients with hyperopia (farsightedness)
- Plus power lenses to be available in full range of nine colors, from subtle to vibrant
FORT WORTH, Texas March 5, 2015 – Alcon, the global leader in eye care and a division of Novartis, has extended the line of AIR OPTIX® COLORS contact lenses to include plus power lenses for patients with hyperopia (farsightedness) across the full range of nine colors.
AIR OPTIX® COLORS contact lenses launched in the US in June 2014 with nine colors, ranging from subtle to vibrant. They are the first monthly replacement, daily wear color lenses available in the US on a silicone hydrogel platform, allowing up to six times more oxygen through the contact lens compared to the leading, older technology color contact lens.1*
"Patients are interested in AIR OPTIX® COLORS contact lenses because of the range of colors available and the comfortable wear they get with this lens," said Carla Mack, Director of Professional and Clinical Support at Alcon.
"Our hyperopic patients have been vocal about their desire to try the lenses, and having plus powers available is a great way for eye care practitioners to re-engage with their farsighted patients about color contact lenses," Mack added.
AIR OPTIX® COLORS contact lenses are recommended for daily wear and a monthly replacement schedule. The lenses are available with an 8.6 mm base curve and a 14.2 mm diameter. The contact lens power range now includes +6.00D to -6.00D (0.25D steps; including plano) and -6.50D to -8.00D (0.50D steps). AIR OPTIX®COLORS contact lenses are available in nine colors, from subtle to vibrant, including Gray, Blue, Green, Pure Hazel, Brown, Sterling Gray, Brilliant Blue, Gemstone Green and Honey.
As a medical device, AIR OPTIX® COLORS contact lenses are available to consumers with a prescription from an eye care professional. Eye care professionals may prescribe the lenses to correct vision, but they also have the option to prescribe the contact lenses in “plano” (non-corrective) form for consumers who do not require vision correction, yet still want to enhance their eye color. There is no refit required for current AIR OPTIX® AQUA contact lens wearers.2
References
- Based on the ratio of lens oxygen transmissibilities; Alcon data on file, 2013.
- Alcon data on file, 2013
*High oxygen transmissible lenses: Dk/t = 138 @ -3.00D.
Important information for AIR OPTIX® COLORS (lotrafilcon B) contact lenses: For daily wear only for near/far-sightedness. Contact lenses, even if worn for cosmetic reasons, are prescription medical devices that must only be worn under the prescription, direction and supervision of an eye care professional. Serious eye health problems may occur as a result of sharing contact lenses. Although rare, serious eye problems can develop while wearing contact lenses. Side effects like discomfort, mild burning or stinging may occur. To help avoid these problems, follow the wear and replacement schedule and the lens care instructions provided by your eye doctor.
See product instructions for complete wear, care and safety information.
About Alcon
Alcon, the global leader in eye care, provides innovative products that enhance quality of life by helping people worldwide see better. The three Alcon businesses - Surgical, Pharmaceutical and Vision Care - offer the widest spectrum of eye care products in the world. Alcon is the second largest division of the Novartis Group, with pro-forma sales of USD 10.8 billion in 2014. Headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, USA, Alcon has more than 25,000 employees worldwide, operations in 75 countries and products available in 180 markets. For more information, visit www.alcon.com.