Self-prescribing contact lenses

[sdnetrocks]

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So I'm getting into contact lenses after wearing glasses most of my life. It seems like the contact lens prescriptions are very specific in that they specify the exact brand and model of the contacts that are being prescribed. To try another kind would require going back to the optometry office and paying another "contact lens fitting" fee.

Is it terribly unethical to self-prescribe contact lenses? (by copying the same refraction numbers and just picking a different brand/model)

 

[colbgw02]

As a medical matter, I have no clue, which is helpful since we're not supposed to dispense medical advice.

As a moral issue, I don't see a problem. This seems akin to automatically substituting a generic medication, which some health care plans mandate unless the physician specifically indicates they want the brand name pills. If you're worried about copying the prescription, then why not just ask the company to substitute a cheaper kind?

 

[dpmd]

I will try not to post medical advice, since that is not allowed. I will state however that there are components of the contact lens prescription that deal with the level of correction your require (which may or may not have changed since you were last seen), but there is also a part that deals with the way the lens will fit on the eye itself which is not the same from brand to brand. You say you are new to contacts. Are you trying to switch because they are uncomfortable? If so, you might try going to the same person that fit you for the lenses and telling them the ones you have aren't working. If it hasn't been that long it may be included in the original fee. I will say that ill fitting contact lenses can cause serious problems. Maybe you would be fine, maybe not, but if you have no expertise in this area I would recommend letting someone who does handle it.

 

[sdnetrocks]

No, I'm pretty happy with my regular contacts. I just wanted to get a pair or two that change the color of my eye.

 

[deleted109597]

No, I'm pretty happy with my regular contacts. I just wanted to get a pair or two that change the color of my eye.

*If* the contacts you wear also have a colored version (B&L do, etc), then using the same base curve and diopter *should* work. However, if you don't have access to opthalmologists (not starting a war here, just working on past history), you should get an appointment with one at least every few years. Not that optometrists aren't capable, some are. But seeing the surgeon once in awhile isn't bad, and if you are a resident or student, you shouldn't have to pay much at all to get in.
Just saying.

 

[dpmd]

If you don't have light eyes, only certain brands will alter your eye color. If you have a relationship with a provider, they may just let you try some samples without charge (that way you can be sure you like the color too). I have dark eyes and have used freshlook colorblends (a disposable lens that actually came strong enough for my correction). There are other brands out there, and without trying them on first, you may end up dropping money on something that doesn't work for you (or worse, causes eye problems for you). I second the motion to see an ophthalmologist.

 

[nutmegs]

any ethical/legal issue if you just want 1800 contacts to refill the same script you've had for 13 years? (only had changes in the refraction numbers but definitely don't need it to be upped this year)

 

[prettygreeneyes]

So I'm getting into contact lenses after wearing glasses most of my life. It seems like the contact lens prescriptions are very specific in that they specify the exact brand and model of the contacts that are being prescribed. To try another kind would require going back to the optometry office and paying another "contact lens fitting" fee.

Is it terribly unethical to self-prescribe contact lenses? (by copying the same refraction numbers and just picking a different brand/model)

Terribly unethical? Possibly. Rather dumb? Yes.

Contact lenses are medical devices. The "refraction numbers" as you call them are only a small part of a proper prescription. The fit and health issues of the contact lens need to also be evaluated, thus the contact lens fitting fee. Unless you have the ability to check the fit of the new lenses on your own eye with a slit lamp (cool party trick by the way)... probably better to go see your eye care professional. 🙄