Research highlights near and distance vision trade-offs in multifocal lenses

Hoya’s one-day disposable multifocal contact lens (HOMCL) and Alcon Dailies Total1 Multifocal (ADT1) perform well for presbyopic wearers, with small differences in performance, according to a study. HOMCL provides better near vision and may be more suitable for patients with dry eyes, while ADT1 offers better distance vision and handling, the study concluded.

The double-masked crossover randomized controlled trial evaluated a HOMCL against ADT1 in 60 patients with presbyopia. Participants wore each lens type for 2 weeks, maintaining daily symptom diaries and completing VF-14 questionnaires to assess vision-related quality of life. There were no significant differences in overall preference or willingness to purchase either lens. Both products demonstrated comparable comfort ratings.

However, performance varied by task. HOMCL provided superior near vision, while ADT1 excelled in distance vision, including high- and low-contrast acuity. HOMCL also showed faster reading speeds, while ADT1 scored higher for lens handling. Dry eye data suggested better acceptance of HOMCL in some cases.

Reference
Evans BJ, Yammouni R, Zeri F, et al. Randomised controlled trial of HOYA one-day multifocal contact lenses: The HOMCL trial. Heliyon. 2024;10(22):e40137. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e40137. PMID: 39634400; PMCID: PMC11615493.