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Opti-Free Express Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution 355ml

Opti-Free Express Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution 355ml

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  • ✔️ Cleans, rinses, disinfects and stores soft contact lenses
  • ✔️ Dual Polyquad and ALDOX system kills harmful lens microorganisms
  • ✔️ Compatible with silicone hydrogel and standard soft lenses
  • ✔️ Removes protein and lipid deposits for clearer, comfortable lenses
  • ✔️ Large 355ml bottle provides up to two months of daily use

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What Is Opti-Free Express Contact Lens Solution?

 

If you wear soft contact lenses, keeping them clean and properly disinfected is not just about comfort — it is essential for your eye health. contact lens solution like Opti-Free Express Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution 355ml is designed to do exactly that: clean, rinse, disinfect, and store your lenses in a single, straightforward step. Available from our eye care collection at Cured Pharmacy, this 355ml bottle offers excellent value for everyday lens wearers.

Opti-Free Express is manufactured by Alcon, a globally recognised name in eye care. It is suitable for use with most soft contact lenses, including silicone hydrogel lenses, which are among the most widely prescribed lens types in the UK today. Whether you are new to contact lenses or a long-term wearer, this solution simplifies your daily lens care routine considerably.

 

How Does Opti-Free Express Work to Disinfect Lenses?

 

Opti-Free Express uses a dual-disinfectant system to protect your lenses and your eyes. The two active ingredients work in combination to eliminate a broad range of bacteria and microorganisms that can accumulate on lens surfaces throughout the day.

  • Polyquaternium-1 (Polyquad): A gentle yet effective antimicrobial agent that disrupts the cell membranes of bacteria, preventing them from surviving on the lens surface.
  • Myristamidopropyl dimethylamine (ALDOX): Works alongside Polyquad to broaden the disinfection spectrum, targeting organisms that Polyquad alone may not fully address.
  • Citrate buffer: Helps to loosen and remove protein and lipid deposits that build up on lenses during wear, keeping them clearer and more comfortable.
  • Tetronic 1304: A surfactant that aids in the removal of surface debris and helps maintain lens wettability.

Together, these ingredients mean you get a thorough clean with every soak — no separate cleaning step required for most daily routines.

 

Who Should Use Opti-Free Express Multi-Purpose Solution?

 

This solution is intended for adults and older teenagers who wear soft contact lenses on a daily or extended basis. It is not suitable for rigid gas-permeable (RGP) or hard lenses, which require a different type of care product. Always check with your optician if you are unsure whether this solution is right for your specific lens type.

  • Daily soft contact lens wearers looking for a convenient all-in-one solution
  • Silicone hydrogel lens wearers who need a compatible multi-purpose product
  • People who want to reduce the number of separate lens care products they use
  • Those who travel regularly and need a reliable, widely available lens solution

 

How Does Opti-Free Express Compare to Other Multi-Purpose Solutions?

 

Feature Opti-Free Express 355ml Biotrue Multi-Purpose Solution
Active disinfectants Polyquad + ALDOX (dual system) Polyaminopropyl biguanide (PHMB)
Silicone hydrogel compatible Yes Yes
Minimum soak time 6 hours 4 hours
Preservative-free option No No

 

How Should You Store Opti-Free Express and Is It Clinically Suitable for Sensitive Eyes?

 

Store Opti-Free Express below 25°C, away from direct sunlight, and keep it out of reach of children. Do not freeze the solution. Once opened, use within the period indicated on the packaging — typically 90 days. Discard any unused solution remaining in your lens case daily; never top up old solution with fresh, as this reduces disinfection efficacy.

If you have a history of eye sensitivity or have previously reacted to preserved lens solutions, speak to your optician before switching to this product. Some individuals with sensitivities to quaternary ammonium compounds may find this contact lens solution causes mild irritation. For broader eye health support, you may also find useful products in our allergy and hay fever collection if seasonal allergies are affecting your eye comfort alongside lens wear.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Opti-Free Express Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution 355ml specifications
Treatment category Contact lens care / Eye care
Mechanism of action Dual disinfectant system (Polyquad + ALDOX) kills bacteria and microorganisms on soft contact lenses
Effective against Bacteria, fungi, and Acanthamoeba on soft contact lens surfaces
Suitable for Adults and older teenagers wearing soft or silicone hydrogel contact lenses
Active ingredients Polyquaternium-1 (Polyquad) 0.001%, Myristamidopropyl dimethylamine (ALDOX) 0.0005%
Pack size 355ml
UK classification General Sale / Medical device
Preparation Aqueous solution
Route of administration Topical ocular (lens soaking and rinsing — not instilled directly into the eye)

Specifications of Opti-Free Express Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution 355ml

 

What Is Opti-Free Express and What Is It Used For?

 

Opti-Free Express Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution is an all-in-one lens care product used to clean, rinse, disinfect, and store soft contact lenses, including silicone hydrogel lenses. It is designed to remove protein deposits, lipids, and debris that accumulate on lenses during daily wear, while simultaneously killing harmful microorganisms that could cause eye infections. The NHS advises that poor contact lens hygiene is one of the leading causes of preventable eye infections in the UK, making a reliable disinfecting routine genuinely important.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Opti-Free Express?

 

Before using this solution, read the following contraindications and warnings carefully:

  • Do not use if you are allergic to Polyquaternium-1, ALDOX, or any other listed ingredient
  • Not suitable for use with rigid gas-permeable (RGP) or hard contact lenses
  • Do not instil this solution directly into your eyes without lenses present
  • Do not use if the tamper-evident seal is broken before first use
  • Stop use and consult your optician if you experience persistent redness, pain, or blurred vision
  • Keep out of reach of children
  • Do not use beyond the expiry date printed on the bottle

There are no known significant drug interactions with Opti-Free Express when used as directed for lens care. However, if you use medicated eye drops, always remove your contact lenses before instilling drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting lenses. The NHS recommends never wearing contact lenses while using most types of eye drops unless specifically advised by your optician or GP.

  • Medicated eye drops: remove lenses before use; wait 15 minutes before reinserting
  • No systemic drug interactions are known for topical lens solutions used as directed

 

How Should You Use Opti-Free Express Correctly?

 

Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling contact lenses or this solution. Follow these steps each time you clean and store your lenses:

  1. Place one lens in the palm of your clean hand
  2. Apply 3–5 drops of Opti-Free Express to the lens surface
  3. Rub the lens gently with your fingertip for 20 seconds on each side — even if the label says "no rub", rubbing improves cleaning efficacy
  4. Rinse the lens thoroughly with fresh Opti-Free Express solution
  5. Place the lens into a clean lens case filled with fresh solution
  6. Repeat for the second lens
  7. Soak lenses for a minimum of 6 hours before wearing
  8. Discard all remaining solution from the case after each use — never top up
  9. Rinse the empty lens case with fresh solution, then leave it open to air dry
Indication Age Group Amount Frequency
Daily lens cleaning and disinfection Adults and older teenagers 3–5 drops per lens for rubbing; fill case for soaking Every time lenses are removed
Lens rinsing before insertion Adults and older teenagers A few drops per lens Before each insertion

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Opti-Free Express?

 

Most people tolerate Opti-Free Express well. Side effects are uncommon when the solution is used as directed. If you experience any of the following, remove your lenses immediately and seek advice from your optician or pharmacist. You can find additional support for eye-related discomfort through our eye care range.

Common side effects:

  • Mild, temporary stinging or burning on lens insertion
  • Slight eye redness that resolves quickly after lens removal
  • Mild watering of the eyes

Less common side effects:

  • Persistent eye irritation or discomfort during lens wear
  • Blurred vision not corrected by blinking
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Allergic reaction to a solution ingredient (redness, swelling, itching)

If you develop sudden eye pain, significant vision changes, or signs of infection such as discharge, remove your lenses immediately and seek urgent medical attention. The NHS advises that contact lens-related eye infections can deteriorate rapidly if left untreated.

 

How Should You Store Opti-Free Express Safely?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the solution's disinfecting effectiveness throughout its shelf life. If you are travelling and need to pack this alongside other health essentials, our travel health collection has everything you might need.

  • Store below 25°C — do not refrigerate or freeze
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use
  • Use within 90 days of opening (check packaging for exact period)
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle
  • Keep out of reach and sight of children
  • Replace your lens case at least every month

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Opti-Free Express contact lens solution online in the UK?

You can buy Opti-Free Express Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution 355ml directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for £9.98. It is available without a prescription and can be ordered for home delivery. Browse our full eye care collection for related products.

How does Opti-Free Express contact lens solution work in the eye?

Opti-Free Express uses a dual-disinfectant system combining Polyquad and ALDOX to kill bacteria and microorganisms on soft contact lens surfaces. It also contains a citrate buffer and surfactants that loosen protein and lipid deposits built up during wear. The solution does not go directly into the eye — it works by treating the lens before you insert it.

How do I use Opti-Free Express step by step?

Wash and dry your hands, then place each lens in your palm and apply 3–5 drops of solution. Rub gently for 20 seconds per side, rinse with fresh solution, then place in a clean case filled with fresh Opti-Free Express. Soak for at least 6 hours before wearing, and always discard leftover solution from the case after each use — never top it up.

How long should I soak my lenses in Opti-Free Express?

The minimum recommended soak time is 6 hours to ensure full disinfection. Most people soak their lenses overnight, which comfortably exceeds this minimum. Soaking for less than 6 hours may mean the disinfection process is incomplete, which could increase the risk of eye infection.

Is Opti-Free Express suitable for silicone hydrogel contact lenses?

Yes, Opti-Free Express is compatible with silicone hydrogel lenses, which are among the most commonly prescribed soft lens types in the UK. It is also suitable for standard soft hydrogel lenses. If you are unsure whether your specific lens brand is compatible, check with your optician before use.

What are the side effects of Opti-Free Express?

Most users experience no side effects when the solution is used correctly. Some people notice mild, temporary stinging or eye redness on lens insertion, which usually settles quickly. If you experience persistent irritation, blurred vision, or signs of an allergic reaction, remove your lenses and consult your optician or pharmacist promptly.

Can I use Opti-Free Express if I have sensitive eyes?

Some people with sensitive eyes tolerate Opti-Free Express well, but others may react to the preservatives Polyquad or ALDOX. If you have previously experienced reactions to preserved lens solutions, speak to your optician before using this product. A preservative-free or hydrogen peroxide-based system may be more appropriate for highly sensitive eyes.

What are the alternatives to Opti-Free Express?

Common alternatives include Biotrue Multi-Purpose Solution, ReNu MultiPlus, and Bausch + Lomb All-in-One Light. For those with sensitivities to preserved solutions, hydrogen peroxide systems such as AOSEPT Plus are another option. Always confirm compatibility with your specific lens type before switching products.

How long does a 355ml bottle of Opti-Free Express last?

A 355ml bottle typically lasts between one and two months for a daily lens wearer, depending on how much solution you use per cleaning session and how often you wear lenses. Once opened, the bottle should be used within 90 days regardless of how much solution remains. Check the packaging for the exact in-use expiry period.

Can I use Opti-Free Express with eye drops?

If you use medicated or lubricating eye drops, always remove your contact lenses before instilling the drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting your lenses. The NHS advises that most eye drops are not intended for use while wearing contact lenses unless your optician or GP has specifically said otherwise. Opti-Free Express itself is not instilled directly into the eye.

Who is eligible to use Opti-Free Express?

Opti-Free Express is suitable for adults and older teenagers who wear soft or silicone hydrogel contact lenses. It is not suitable for children without specific optician guidance, and it is not appropriate for use with rigid gas-permeable or hard lenses. People with known allergies to any of the listed ingredients should not use this product.

What happens if I accidentally get Opti-Free Express in my eye without a lens?

If the solution accidentally enters your eye, rinse your eye thoroughly with clean water immediately. The solution is not formulated for direct ocular instillation, so you may experience temporary stinging or irritation. If discomfort persists or your vision is affected, seek advice from a pharmacist, optician, or GP.

How often should I replace my lens case when using Opti-Free Express?

You should replace your lens case at least once a month. Lens cases can harbour biofilm and bacteria even with regular cleaning, which can reduce the effectiveness of your disinfecting routine. After each use, rinse the empty case with fresh solution — not water — and leave it open to air dry face down on a clean tissue.

Can I use Opti-Free Express for long-term daily use?

Yes, Opti-Free Express is designed for ongoing daily use as part of a regular lens care routine. There is no recommended maximum duration of use, provided you follow the instructions and replace the bottle within 90 days of opening. Regular eye check-ups with your optician — typically every one to two years — remain important regardless of which solution you use. For other long-term health products, explore our vitamins and supplements collection.

What does the latest research say about multi-purpose contact lens solutions?

Research published in clinical ophthalmology literature consistently supports the use of multi-purpose solutions with dual-disinfectant systems for reducing microbial contamination on soft lenses. Studies have shown that the rub-and-rinse method — even with "no-rub" labelled solutions — significantly improves cleaning outcomes compared to rinsing alone. The NHS and optometric bodies in the UK continue to recommend daily cleaning and disinfection as the cornerstone of safe contact lens wear.

How Should You Use Opti-Free Express?

Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and dry them with a lint-free towel before handling your contact lenses or this solution. Avoid touching the tip of the bottle to any surface, including your fingers or lens case, to prevent contamination.

What Is the Correct Dose of Opti-Free Express?

There is no fixed "dose" in the traditional sense, but the amount of solution used per cleaning session matters for effectiveness. Using too little solution during the rub step reduces the mechanical removal of deposits, while using too little in the case may compromise disinfection.

When Is the Best Time to Use Opti-Free Express?

The best time to clean and soak your lenses is immediately after removing them at the end of the day. Cleaning lenses promptly after removal prevents deposits from drying onto the lens surface, which makes them harder to remove. Soaking overnight also ensures the minimum 6-hour disinfection period is comfortably met before you reinsert your lenses the following morning.

If you remove your lenses during the day — for example, before a nap — clean and store them straight away rather than leaving them dry in the case. Dry storage can damage lens material and reduce comfort on reinsertion.

How Long Can You Use Opti-Free Express For?

Opti-Free Express is suitable for ongoing daily use as part of your regular lens care routine. There is no maximum duration of use, but you must use the bottle within 90 days of opening — even if solution remains. Using solution beyond this period risks reduced disinfection efficacy as the active ingredients degrade over time.

Replace your lens case at least monthly, and attend regular optician check-ups — typically every one to two years — to ensure your lenses and eye health remain in good condition. If you notice any change in lens comfort or eye health, consult your optician before continuing use.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Opti-Free Express?

Most people who use Opti-Free Express as directed experience no side effects at all. When reactions do occur, they are usually mild and temporary, often related to lens insertion rather than the solution itself causing lasting harm.

  • Mild, temporary stinging or burning sensation on lens insertion
  • Slight eye redness that resolves shortly after lens removal
  • Mild watering or tearing of the eyes
  • Temporary blurred vision immediately after inserting lenses, which clears with blinking

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Opti-Free Express?

Less commonly, some users — particularly those with pre-existing eye sensitivities — may experience more noticeable reactions. These are not typical but should be taken seriously if they occur.

  • Persistent eye irritation or discomfort during lens wear
  • Prolonged redness that does not settle after lens removal
  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Itching or a gritty sensation in the eye
  • Increased lens awareness or intolerance during wear

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Opti-Free Express?

Serious side effects are rare but require prompt attention. If you experience any of the following, remove your lenses immediately and seek urgent medical advice from your GP, optician, or NHS 111.

  • Sudden or significant eye pain
  • Marked reduction in vision or sudden vision changes
  • Visible eye discharge or crusting — possible signs of infection
  • Swelling of the eyelids or surrounding tissue
  • Signs of allergic reaction: widespread redness, swelling, or hives

Contact lens-related eye infections, including Acanthamoeba keratitis, can deteriorate rapidly. The NHS advises that any sudden eye pain in a contact lens wearer should be treated as a medical emergency until proven otherwise.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Opti-Free Express?

For mild, transient side effects such as brief stinging on insertion, no specific action is usually needed beyond monitoring. If symptoms persist beyond a few minutes after lens insertion, remove your lenses and allow your eyes to rest. Rinse your eyes with clean water if needed.

For persistent or worsening symptoms, do not reinsert your lenses. Contact your optician or pharmacist for advice. If you suspect a serious eye infection or allergic reaction, seek same-day medical attention. Do not attempt to self-treat significant eye symptoms.

Can Opti-Free Express Interact With Other Medicines?

No significant drug interactions are known for Opti-Free Express when used as directed for lens care. However, if you use medicated eye drops — including antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, or antihistamine drops — always remove your contact lenses before instilling the drops. Wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting your lenses to avoid the drops being absorbed into the lens material, which can alter their concentration and potentially cause irritation.

If you are prescribed any new eye medication, inform your prescriber that you wear contact lenses so they can advise on timing and compatibility. Some eye drops contain preservatives that can accumulate in soft lens material and cause irritation over time.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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