Hydroquinine, an organic compound found in the bark of some trees, and a drug used to treat malaria, is known to have bacterial killing activity which may help contact lens wearers.
A recent study has revealed that a natural substance is effective in disinfecting contact lenses. Microbial keratitis, an infection of the cornea that affects contact lens wearers, is a serious complication caused by bacteria, with Pseudomonas aeruginosa being the most common. Previous research has found that existing disinfecting solutions are ineffective against preventing the formation of biofilm, which are clusters of bacteria that adhere to lens surfaces.
Hydroquinine, an organic compound extracted from the bark of certain trees, has been found to possess bacterial killing activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa as well as other significant bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Researchers from the University of Portsmouth in England, along with Naresuan and Pibulsongkram Rajabhat universities in Thailand, have investigated the potential use of multipurpose solutions containing hydroquinine as an effective disinfectant for contact lenses. Their findings indicate that the natural compound is capable of eliminating 99.9% of bacteria at the time of disinfection.
The research, published in the journal Antibiotics, suggests that these findings could contribute to the development of novel disinfectants aimed at combating Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria. Dr. Robert Baldock from the School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences at the University of Portsmouth expressed optimism about using natural products as a possible solution to reduce the risk of contact lens contamination. Hydroquinine is already known for its effectiveness in treating malaria in humans, and it is also being used in the Netherlands to treat nocturnal muscle cramps. Despite this, there has been limited investigation into its drug-resistant properties.
Regarding sustainability, it’s important to consider the environmental impact of contact lens disposal. Some opticians in Canada are now accepting used lenses to address the increasing problem of contact lens waste, while some companies offer recyclable packaging for lenses. Additionally, certain lens brands are produced using renewable energy sources.
