Why does my prescription have a brand on it?

Mar 11, 2020

As a contact lens wearer, you’ve probably seen your fair share of prescriptions. In addition to multiple columns, symbols, acronyms, and (potentially) difficult-to-read handwriting, they include the name of a specific brand of contact lens. Here’s why.

Prescriptions are brand-specific

Contact lens prescriptions are different from other prescriptions you may have seen before. Normally, your doctor would write you a prescription then send it to a pharmacy to be filled. Your doctor would prescribe the generic version of a medication, then the pharmacy will dispense the brand name or generic version depending on what they carry.

A contact lens prescription is backwards. Instead of having you or the pharmacist decide on a brand, your eye doctor does. During your exam they will take measurements of your eyes, which will help them determine a lens with the perfect fit. From there, they’ll issue you a prescription that includes the parameters that will give you 20/20 vision fit your eye shape.

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Not all brands are equal

Now, at this point, you might be wondering, “Aren’t all contacts the same? Why can’t I just get any brand of contacts I want?” Unfortunately, no. Aside from getting a contact that fits your eye perfectly (not all brands make lenses in every size), different lens materials may be more comfortable/effective for your specific vision needs.

When your eye doctor fits you for contacts, they’re primarily are looking at two measurements: diameter and base curve. The diameter (DIA) of a contact is the width of the lens and needs to match your eyes in order to fit comfortably. The base curve (BC) is the depth of the lens’ curve. If there isn’t a perfect match to your eye, then the lens may not adhere correctly and cause discomfort.

Both measurements are important and can really affect how comfortable a contact feels. Different brands are made with different base curves and diameters, which is why your eye care provider selects one for you during an exam.  

How we can help

With all of that in mind, it may seem like contact lens prescriptions have more to them than meets the eye (pun completely intended). You’d be right, contact lens prescriptions can be complicated, but we’re here to make it simple. You can upload your prescription with your order to let us take care of the complicated part. Or if you’re not sure how to get started, you can always chat with a live agent who will help you find exactly what you need.

On top of that, if you want to try a new brand because the one you’re currently in isn’t perfect, you can try our ExpressExam! It will check to make sure you’re a good fit for our new ultra-comfortable AquaSoft Daily contacts and we’ll send you a trial pair for free. You’re always encouraged to call, text, email or chat in if you have any questions. (We’re even on Facebook and Twitter if you’d rather talk there.)