Soft Contact Lenses for Nearsightedness

(ARCTIC Trial)

This trial tests new soft contact lenses to determine their effect on the thickness of the choroid in people with nearsightedness (myopia). It includes three different types of lenses, and researchers aim to understand how each one works in the short term. Ideal participants have been wearing glasses or soft contact lenses, have nearsightedness within a specific range, and have not used any myopia control treatments in the last two years. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could enhance vision care for those with myopia.

The trial requires that you do not use any medications that might affect the study results, like antihistamines or atropine eye drops. It's best to discuss your current medications with the study team to see if they might be a concern.

Studies have shown that the new soft contact lenses for nearsightedness are generally easy to use. Research indicates that these lenses are safe, with no serious problems reported. Some studies found that users experienced mild to moderate discomfort, similar to regular contact lenses. Designed to slow the progression of nearsightedness, these lenses work as intended. Overall, evidence suggests that the lenses are safe, with side effects similar to standard contact lenses.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about these prototype soft contact lenses because they offer a new approach to managing nearsightedness. Unlike traditional options like glasses or standard contact lenses, these experimental lenses may provide improved vision correction by utilizing advanced lens materials or designs. This innovation has the potential to enhance comfort and vision quality, making daily wear more appealing and effective for people with nearsightedness. By exploring these new lenses, researchers hope to offer a more comfortable and efficient solution for vision correction that could surpass current options.

This trial will compare three different designs of prototype soft contact lenses: Lens A, Lens B, and Lens C. Studies have shown that new types of soft contact lenses can effectively slow the progression of nearsightedness, or myopia. One study found that all three lens designs successfully slowed eye growth over six months while maintaining clear vision. Another study confirmed that these lenses, especially those specifically designed for myopia control, effectively managed vision changes. Additionally, wearing similar contact lenses for three years significantly slowed myopia progression compared to regular glasses. Overall, these lenses appear promising for managing nearsightedness.¹²⁶⁷⁸