 | FDA keeps an eye on Halloween fun
~ FDA
» Local Angle: Contact Pennsylvania's FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator at 1-877-689-8073 to register a complaint about decorative contact lenses.
Oct. 24, 2009 - It's a scary time at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA, as consumers seek out unapproved decorative contact lenses for Halloween fun. |
| Decorative contact lenses | |
| |
As the ultimate costume accessory, decorative contact lenses, such as an "eye of the tiger" look, have the potential to become a real time Halloween nightmare that leads to permanent eye damage.
According to the FDA, recent legislation has made it illegal to market decorative lenses as over-the-counter products. Still, the FDA is aware that consumers without valid prescriptions have bought decorative contact lenses from beauty salons, record stores, video stores, flea markets, convenience stores, beach shops, and the Internet. The FDA has regulatory authority for contact lenses, both corrective and decorative.
"What troubles us is when
they are bought and used without a valid prescription, without the
involvement of a qualified eye care professional, or without
appropriate follow-up care," James Saviola, FDA official, said in a FDA press release. "This can lead to
significant risks of eye injuries, including blindness."
Unauthorized contact lenses of all types present risks to the eye that
include corneal ulcers, corneal abrasion, vision impairment, and
blindness.
FDA Recommendations for Decorative Contact Lenses1. Get an eye exam from a licensed eye care professional, even if you feel your vision is perfect.
2. Get a valid prescription that includes the brand and lens dimensions.
3. Buy the lenses from an eye care professional or from a vendor who requires that you provide prescription information for the lenses.
4. Follow directions for cleaning, disinfecting, and wearing the lenses, and visit your eye care professional for follow-up eye exams.
The FDA has posted a
video on decorative contact lenses.
