Kalifilcon A is a contact lens material developed by Bausch+Lomb, introduced in 2020. It forms the basis for daily disposable lenses, designed to enhance comfort and provide clear vision throughout the day.
What is Kalifilcon A
Kalifilcon A is a silicone hydrogel material. Its composition allows for higher oxygen permeability than traditional hydrogel lenses. This increased oxygen flow is important for eye health, allowing more oxygen to reach the cornea. The material is created through a two-phase polymerization process, where methacrylate monomers first form a silicone backbone, followed by n-vinyl pyrrolidone polymerizing to create high molecular weight polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) that surrounds the silicone structure.
The material also exhibits moisture retention properties, helping the lens stay hydrated throughout extended wear. Kalifilcon A has a nominal water content of 55%, which helps maintain hydration. This characteristic helps to minimize dryness and discomfort over many hours of wear. Kalifilcon A is also designed to be flexible and soft, with a low modulus of 0.50 MPa. This softness allows the lens to conform comfortably to the eye’s surface, reducing the sensation of the lens during blinking.
Key Advantages for Wearers
Kalifilcon A offers benefits for contact lens wearers, particularly those who experience discomfort with other lenses. Its design promotes comfort, especially during long periods of wear. The lens maintains 96% of its moisture for a full 16-hour day, contributing to sustained comfort.
This material is also well-suited for individuals who frequently experience dry eye symptoms with other contact lenses. The combination of high oxygen permeability and moisture retention helps maintain a stable tear film. A stable tear film helps reduce the feeling of dryness and irritation. These features contribute to a healthier and more satisfying lens-wearing experience.
Where Kalifilcon A Is Used
Kalifilcon A is exclusively used in Bausch+Lomb INFUSE daily disposable contact lenses. These lenses are designed for single-use, meaning a fresh pair is used each day and then discarded. This daily replacement schedule eliminates the need for lens cleaning solutions and storage, offering convenience and reducing the risk of deposit buildup.
The Bausch+Lomb INFUSE lenses with Kalifilcon A are indicated for the daily correction of various vision impairments. They are used to correct myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness). Additionally, a toric version of these lenses is available for the correction of astigmatism, addressing irregular curvature of the eye. The material is also available in INFUSE Multifocal lenses for presbyopia.
Innovations Over Older Materials
Kalifilcon A is an advancement compared to older hydrogel materials, such as Hilafilcon B. Traditional hydrogel lenses like those made with Hilafilcon B typically have lower oxygen permeability, which can limit wear time and potentially lead to discomfort or eye health issues over prolonged use. Hilafilcon B, while having high water content, generally provides less oxygen transmission to the cornea.
Kalifilcon A improves upon these older materials by combining high oxygen transmissibility (134 Dk/t) with a moderate water content (55%) and a low modulus. This combination addresses common issues associated with traditional lenses, such as dryness and discomfort, by allowing more oxygen to reach the eye and maintaining better hydration throughout the day. The material also incorporates beneficial ingredients, including electrolytes, osmoprotectants, and moisturizers, inspired by the Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society’s DEWS II report. These additions, such as potassium, erythritol, and glycerin, work to support a healthy tear film and reduce tear film break-up. This technological leap enhances comfort and promotes a healthier environment for the eye during lens wear.