Many contact lens wearers are surprised to learn that they can’t purchase lenses with an expired prescription. If you’ve run out of contacts or can’t find your updated prescription, you might be wondering whether it’s still possible to order a new box.
Is it safe to do so? More importantly, is it even legal? The answer is no. In the United States, you cannot purchase contacts with an expired prescription because laws regulate contact lens prescriptions to ensure they remain accurate and safe for wearers.
How Expired Is Too Expired?
Many wonder how much time can pass before an expired prescription makes a difference. The short answer? Even a minor delay in renewing your prescription can lead to issues. Depending on state and regulatory guidelines, prescriptions typically expire after 1 year, or sometimes 2. Once expired, they’re no longer valid for purchases, and retailers are legally prohibited from fulfilling expired orders.
While this may seem inconvenient, there’s an essential reason for these legal constraints. Your eyes are subject to physical and health changes over time, and using outdated prescriptions could jeopardize your vision.
Why Do Contact Lens Prescriptions Expire?
Contact lens prescriptions expire to ensure your lenses remain safe and effective. Here’s why timely renewals are non-negotiable:
Changes in Eye Health
Your eyes are constantly changing, even if you don’t notice it. Subtle shifts in vision, shape, and overall health can impact how your contacts fit and perform. Routine eye exams allow optometrists to spot these changes early and recommend adjustments, helping prevent long-term complications.
Ensuring Proper Fit
Contact lenses aren’t 1-size-fits-all. Any change in the size or curvature of your eyes could cause lenses to fit improperly, leading to discomfort or potential damage to the cornea. Renewing your prescription means your lenses are tailored to your current eye measurements.
Legal Requirement
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) mandates that contact lens prescriptions expire after a set period to protect consumers. This law makes regular checkups with eye care professionals essential, reducing the risks associated with worn-out or outdated prescriptions.
Consequences of Using an Expired Prescription
If you’re tempted to use an expired contact lens prescription, it’s essential to consider the consequences. Here’s what can go wrong:
Discomfort & Irritation
Ill-fitting lenses or incorrect prescriptions can cause redness, dryness, and irritation. Over time, these seemingly minor issues may lead to more significant discomfort and even corneal abrasions.
Missed Eye Conditions
Routine eye exams are crucial in diagnosing glaucoma, cataracts, or retinal issues and wearing expired prescription lenses delays necessary screenings, potentially allowing these issues to worsen undetected. Ignoring expiration dates compromises the comfort of your lenses and puts your overall eye health at risk.
How Long Is a Contact Lens Prescription Good For?
Most contact lens prescriptions are valid for 1 year, though some may extend to 2 years, depending on state laws and your optometrist’s discretion. The expiration date encourages you to schedule regular checkups, giving your optometrist a chance to reassess your vision and monitor any changes in eye health.
If you’re unsure when your prescription expires, check the documentation provided by your optometrist or contact their office for confirmation.
What to Do if Your Prescription Has Expired
No need to panic if your prescription has expired. Here’s how to address the situation quickly and safely:
1. Schedule an Eye Exam
Book an appointment with your optometrist as soon as possible. A routine contact lens exam typically includes a vision test, a fitting assessment for contact lenses, and a check for underlying health conditions.
2. Talk to Your Optometrist About a New Prescription
During your visit, discuss any concerns about your current lenses. If you’ve experienced discomfort, changes in vision, or lifestyle adjustments, share this information so your optometrist can recommend the best option.
Many optometrists also offer trial lenses for new prescriptions, so you can make sure your lenses feel comfortable before committing to a full supply.
Avoid the Risks of Wearing Expired Contacts
Never buy or use contacts with an expired prescription. While it may seem like a convenient shortcut, the risks outweigh the benefits. Properly fitted and updated contact lenses are essential for maintaining clear vision and long-term eye health.
With a visit to Total Vision Solana Beach, we can check that your eyes are healthy, your vision is optimized, and your contact lenses are as comfortable as possible. If your prescription has expired, request an appointment with us today.
