Packaging solutions

Abstract

The present invention is directed to new and improved packaging systems for storing ophthalmic devices such as contact lenses and to methods for packaging such ophthalmic devices with aqueous packaging solutions to improve the comfort of the lens during wear. In particular, the present invention is directed to a packaging system for storing an ophthalmic device in an aqueous packaging solution comprising an anionic polymer and a non-ionic polyol. Such solutions can be retained on the surface of an unused lens for extended periods of time, resulting in surface modification that persists in the eye, which may provide significant improvement in the wetting properties of fresh contact lenses used for the first time and, moreover, even several hours after lens insertion, preventing dryness and improving lubricity.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Technical Field[0002]The present invention generally relates to packaging solutions for ophthalmic devices such as contact lenses.[0003]2. Description of Related Art[0004]Blister-packs and glass vials are typically used to individually package each soft contact lens for sale to a customer. Saline or deionized water is commonly used to store the lens in the blister-packs, as mentioned in various patents related to the packaging or manufacturing of contact lenses. Because lens material may tend to stick to itself and to the lens package, packaging solutions for blister-packs have sometimes been formulated to reduce or eliminate lens folding and sticking. For this reason, poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) has been used in contact lens packaging solutions.[0005]It has been stated that if a lens is thoroughly cleaned before insertion, lacrimal fluid can adequately wet the lens. Furthermore, the difficulties of adding a surfactant to a packaging solution, inclu...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0011](b) packaging the solution and the device in a manner preventing contamination of the device by microorganisms; and

[0019]By combining a non-ionic polyol with an anionic polymer such as an anionic carboxymethylcellulose to form an aqueous packaging solution, a more uniform coating of the anionic polymer may be obtained. It is believed that the Mark-Houwink Constant (α) of the anionic polymer increases to a level resulting in a coating that is more uniform over the lens, and hydrogen bonding of the anionic polymer is more effective. Thus, the lens will be more comfortable to wear in actual use and may allow for the extended wear of the lens without irritation or other adverse effects to the cornea.

Problems solved by technology

Furthermore, the difficulties of adding a surfactant to a packaging solution, including the possibility of lowering shelf-life and / or adverse reactions during heat sterilization, have further limited the use of surfactants in a packaging solution for the purpose of providing any possible or marginal effect on lens comfort.

Nevertheless, many people who wear contact lenses still experience dryness or eye irritation throughout the day and particularly towards the end of the day.

An insufficiently wetted lens at any point in time will cause significant discomfort to the lens wearer.

This type of polyanion may not coat uniformly a surface of a contact lens, resulting in the lens being relatively uncomfortable during use.

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