How are contact lenses classified?

Contact lenses are classified as medical devices because they are specifically designed to serve a functional purpose related to health care. Their primary role is to correct vision, and they are regulated by health authorities, such as the FDA in the United States. This classification recognizes that contact lenses interact directly with the eye, which is a sensitive and vital organ, and that their safety and efficacy must be ensured through rigorous testing and regulatory oversight.

As medical devices, contact lenses must adhere to specific standards regarding their materials, manufacturing processes, and labeling. This classification helps to ensure that users receive safe and effective products that do not compromise eye health or overall well-being. The distinction as medical devices also underscores the need for proper fitting and monitoring by qualified professionals to avoid complications such as corneal infections or discomfort.

Other classifications mentioned, such as drugs, dangerous substances, or consumer products, do not accurately convey the purpose, regulation, and usage of contact lenses in the context of vision correction and eye care. Thus, being recognized as medical devices is crucial to their appropriate management and safe use.