What type of agent should patients use to clean their contact lenses upon removal?

The use of a surfactant to clean contact lenses upon removal is vital for maintaining excellent lens hygiene and clarity. Surfactants are compounds that reduce surface tension, allowing them to effectively interact with proteins, lipids, and other deposits that may accumulate on the lenses. By breaking up these deposits, surfactants ensure that the lenses are thoroughly cleaned and ready for safe and comfortable wear.

Surfactants are specifically formulated for contact lenses and are suitable for both soft and rigid gas-permeable lenses. They help to disinfect the lenses and prevent the development of harmful microorganisms, which can cause infections or irritation. Using a surfactant helps ensure that the lenses remain comfortable and safe for the wearer, contributing to overall ocular health.

The other options do not provide the same level of effectiveness for cleaning contact lenses. For instance, alcohol can be too harsh and drying for lenses, potentially damaging their material. Antibiotics are used to treat infections but are not appropriate for routine lens cleaning. Saline solutions may help rinse lenses but lack the active cleaning properties required to remove deposits effectively. Thus, a surfactant is the most suitable choice for cleaning contact lenses.