Alcon, the global leader in eye care and a division of Novartis, unveiled new AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde monthly replacement contact lenses to eye care professionals at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Optometry (AAO) in Anaheim, California. The contact lenses bring together two innovative technologies –  SmartShield Technology and HydraGlyde Moisture Matrix – for a unique combination of deposit protection and longer-lasting lens surface moisture. AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contact lenses support a comfortable lens-wearing experience.

SmartShield Technology is a patented, ultra-thin protective shield that helps the lens resist lipid deposits and delivers outstanding wettability. It also helps the lens resist changes from everyday cosmetic product use. HydraGlyde Moisture Matrix is a wetting agent specifically designed for silicone hydrogel lenses that helps attract lens surface moisture and retain lens surface hydration. In an in vitro study, AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contact lenses provided longer-lasting wettability after 16 hours proving its ability to provide lens surface moisture benefits and lens surface hydration.

“We are excited to add AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde to our monthly replacement portfolio of products. Patients’ needs, lifestyles, and environments are constantly evolving and many face challenges with their eyes, particularly lens wearers,” said Sergio Duplan, Region President for North America at Alcon. “This new monthly replacement contact lens can provide the benefits of excellent deposit resistance and longer-lasting lens surface moisture to patients in a replacement schedule that promotes compliant wear.”

This is the latest innovation in the AIR OPTIX family of monthly replacement contact lenses, whose comprehensive portfolio includes monthly replacement clear and color contact lenses, overnight and flexible wear options, toric and multifocal lens correction. AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contact lenses are expected to be available to patients in the US in late February of next year. The contact lenses will be available at launch with a power range of +8.00D to -12.00D, which includes both expanded plus and minus powers.

“At Alcon, we are committed to helping people see, look and feel their best and this includes continuing to expand our innovative product portfolio,” said Franck Leveiller, senior vice president, global head of research and development at Alcon. “Adding this exclusive lens surface moisture technology to AIR OPTIX brand contact lenses will provide eye care professionals a new option for their contact lens patients.”