Breakthrough Treatment for Reading Glasses

Studies show that nearly half of all adults in the United States have an issue reading small or close text, a version of near-sightedness called presbyopia. This is an issue that progressively gets worse over time, commonly beginning to appear around the age of 40. This is because the lens in the eye becomes less flexible, which makes it difficult to focus on objects up close.

There are two usual solutions for this: bifocals if you already need glasses for distance or reading glasses if your vision is otherwise good.

But now, there is a third option.

Centers Health Care has details on this new option that’s FDA approved: eye drops.

An Eye Drop to Replace Your Reading Glasses?

The drops, called Vuity, were approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in late 2021. The drops are said to take effect about 15 minutes after application and are effective for anywhere from six to 10 hours.

Scientists who helped create Vuity say that it works by reducing the size of the pupil, thus expanding the depth of field and allowing the eye to naturally focus at different ranges.

Talk to Your Doctor if You’re Interested

Side effects from clinical trials were mostly mild, with headaches and red eyes being the most common. It’s also believed that the drops work best in people from 40 to 55 years of age. Clinical trials showed a decrease in effectiveness around age 65. The drops also work best for mild to moderate cases of presbyopia.

A 30-day supply is said to cost around $80, and experts say it’s unlikely that insurance will cover it because it’s not medically necessary.