Drug-Delivering Contact Lenses
In March, the FDA approved the first contact lenses that not only help improve vision but actively deliver medicine to the eyes. The lenses were developed by Johnson & Johnson and are sold as part of its Acuvue brand of disposable contacts. They release a commonly used antihistamine called ketotifen, which is expected to help prevent or treat itchy eyes from allergy for up to 12 hours.
Though this is a relatively simple application, doctors hope that the technology can soon be used to help treat more serious eye conditions, like cataracts and glaucoma.
