FDA approves first ever contact lenses that get darker in sunlight

The US Food and Drug Administration has approved a new contact lens that could make sunglasses a thing of the past.

FDA officials signed off the first contact lens to incorporate an additive that automatically darkens the lens when exposed to bright light.

“This contact lens is the first of its kind to incorporate the same technology that is used in eyeglasses that automatically darken in the sun,” the FDA’s Malvina Eydelman said.

The new transition contact lenses were tested on 24 patients to make sure there were no problems with driving during the day and at night. None of the users reported any trouble with the contacts prior to the FDA’s approval.

“After more than a decade of product development and numerous clinical trials involving more than 1,000 patients, we are excited to bring to market a solution to help contact lenses wearers manage the changing light conditions they face every day in their modern, active lives,” Dr Xiao-Yu Song, head of R&D for Johnson & Johnson Vision said.

Johnson & Johnson also said that their subsidiary, Acuvue, will be introducing the new Oasys Contact Lenses during the “first half of 2019.”

The lenses contain a photochromic additive that adapts the amount of visible light filtered to the eye based on the amount of UV light to which they are exposed.

This results in the lenses slightly darkening in bright sunlight that automatically return to a regular tint when exposed to normal or dark lighting conditions.

Those with inflammation or infection in or around the eyelids are advised to not use the contact lenses. They will be capable of daily use for up to 14 days but should not be exposed to water.

Ravi Goel, MD, clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology, has called the transitioning lenses “interesting technology.”

He said he has concerns when it comes to excess sun exposure which can cause permanent eye damage.

"If your eyes are exposed to strong sunlight for too long without protection, UV rays can damage the cornea and adjacent tissues. Long-term sun exposure has also been linked to an increased risk of cataracts, macular degeneration and growths on or near the eye," Mr Goel told CBS News.

"So it's a serious issue and one that shouldn't be ignored. Patients should be told clearly that these contact lenses will not provide UV protection."