Bausch & Lomb Introduces New Renu MultiPlus(TM) Solution

First Single-Bottle Lens Care Solution With Daily Protein Removal

           Can Eliminate the Need for a Separate Enzymatic Cleaner

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Nov. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- In the latest example of products created to meet contact lens wearers' increasing demands for convenience and comfort, Bausch & Lomb (NYSE: BOL) has introduced ReNu MultiPlus(TM) solution, the first single-bottle lens care solution for promoting daily protein removal in addition to cleaning, rinsing and disinfecting soft contact lenses.

ReNu MultiPlus solution contains the breakthrough ingredient Hydranate(TM) which, when used daily, can eliminate the need for a separate enzymatic cleaner which is currently used by 53 percent of soft contact lens wearers to reduce protein buildup. Daily removal of protein, other deposits and debris from soft contact lenses with ReNu MultiPlus solution can lead to better vision and comfort for contact lens wearers.

Like any healthcare consumer today, contact lens wearers more readily stop using products and services that fail to meet their expectations. Discomfort and the complexity of lens care regimens are two key reasons people discontinue contact lens wear. More specifically, contact lens wearers may experience irritation or reduced vision associated with protein buildup. Daily protein removal with Renu MultiPlus solution can help contact lens wearers attain a more comfortable lens wear.

"The innovation of the ReNu(R) product line is evidence of how Bausch & Lomb is committed to providing state-of-the-art, quality products that improve vision and enhance the health and well-being of people who use contact lenses," said Alan Dozier, president of Bausch & Lomb North American Vision Care. "Our goal with each advancement -- from our newest SofLens66(TM) contact lens to Renu MultiPlus solution -- is to maximize the comfort and convenience so important to lens wearers. ReNu MultiPlus with Hydranate provides contact lens wearers with the most advanced lens care regimen that combines simplicity and maximum effectiveness."

ReNu MultiPlus solution is the only lens care system that contains Hydranate and poloxamine. Hydranate, the agent that promotes daily removal of the protein that builds up on contact lenses, represents a multifunctional molecule that works by sequestration and dispersion. Through sequestration, Hydranate binds with calcium to break the deposit bridges that form between the lens and proteins. Hydranate also attaches to proteins and disperses them from the lens surface. Poloxamine is a surface-active agent that removes lipid and environmental debris from the lenses.

In the clinical setting, ReNu MultiPlus solution proved to be safe and effective for use with soft contact lenses, and as effective as the Renu Multi-Purpose solution regimen (the number one used lens care system in U.S. households) with weekly use of ReNu 1 Step enzymatic cleaner.

"Today's contact lens wearers have active lifestyles and, consequently, less time to spend on lens care," said David Geffen, O.D., an investigator for the ReNu MultiPlus solution clinical trials. "By eliminating a step in the care regimen, the product can eliminate the frustration often experienced by many contact lens wearers that use enzymatic cleaners, and meets the convenience demands of active people interested in the benefits of lens wear."

ReNu MultiPlus solution is available at drug, food, and mass merchandise retailers nationwide.

Bausch & Lomb Incorporated is a global eye care company dedicated to helping people see, look and feel better through innovative technology and design. Its core businesses include soft and rigid gas permeable contact lenses, lens-care products, premium sunglasses and ophthalmic pharmaceutical products. The company is advantaged with some of the most respected brands in the world starting with its name, Bausch & Lomb(R), and including Ray-Ban(R), Arnette(TM), Curel(R), SofLens66(TM), Boston(R), Killer Loop(R) and ReNu(R). Founded in 1853 in Rochester, N.Y., where it continues to have its headquarters, the company has annual revenues of approximately $2 billion and employs approximately 13,000 people in 35 countries. Bausch & Lomb products are available in more than 100 countries around the world.

SOURCE Bausch & Lomb

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/CONTACT: Holly Echols of Bausch & Lomb, 716-338-8064, or home, 716-473-7104, or pager, 800-405-5314; or Kathy Vincent of PResence EURO RSCG, 212-845-42O3/

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