Top Optometric Pharmaceuticals and Products for Your Practice 

Running a successful optometry practice means being prepared with the right tools and products to serve your patients effectively. Whether you’re restocking your shelves or setting up a new office, having a curated selection of essential optometric pharmaceuticals and products on hand is crucial. 

In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of top products that every OD should keep in stock. These items are chosen not just for their effectiveness, but for their necessity in daily practice. From diagnostic tools to therapeutic treatments, these essentials will ensure you’re ready to meet the diverse needs of your patients with confidence. 

Think of this list as your go-to resource for maintaining a well-equipped practice. With these top picks, you can ensure that your practice runs smoothly and that you’re always ready to provide the highest level of care. Let’s dive into the must-have optometric pharmaceuticals and products for your practice. 

Optometric Pharmaceuticals 

In the day-to-day operations of an optometry practice, optometric pharmaceuticals are indispensable. They play a critical role in diagnosing, treating, and managing a wide array of eye conditions. Keeping these pharmaceuticals well-stocked ensures you can provide the highest level of care promptly and effectively. 

Fluorescein Sodium with Benoxinate is a fundamental combination for any practice. This 5ml solution (item number 1067294) combines a diagnostic dye and local anesthetic. It’s particularly useful for detecting corneal abrasions, fitting contact lenses, and identifying foreign bodies. The dual action of fluorescein sodium and benoxinate not only improves diagnostic accuracy but also enhances patient comfort during examinations. 

Proparacaine HCl 0.5% Ophthalmic Solution (item number 1029333) is widely used as a topical anesthetic for various ophthalmic procedures. Its quick onset and minimal irritation make it a reliable choice for tonometry, gonioscopy, and minor surgical interventions, ensuring that patients experience minimal discomfort. 

For pupil dilation, Phenylephrine HCl 2.5% Ophthalmic Solution (item number 1307664) is a go-to mydriatic agent. Its effectiveness in dilating pupils with a lower risk of systemic side effects makes it ideal for thorough eye examinations. Similarly, Tropicamide 1% Ophthalmic Solution (item number 1029321) offers rapid onset and short duration dilation, perfect for routine eye exams where quick recovery is beneficial. 

When longer-lasting dilation and cycloplegia are required, Cyclopentolate HCl 1% Ophthalmic Solution (item number 1029323) is invaluable. It provides extended pupil dilation and temporary paralysis of the ciliary muscle, facilitating detailed diagnostic and preoperative assessments. 

Ryzumvi™ (Phentolamine Ophthalmic Solution) 0.75% (item number 1307407) is used to reverse mydriasis. This product quickly returns pupils to their normal size post-exam, enhancing patient comfort and convenience, which is especially appreciated by those with sensitivity to prolonged dilation. 

Ensuring your practice is well-stocked with these pharmaceuticals means being prepared to provide comprehensive, high-quality care. These medications enhance diagnostic accuracy, improve patient comfort, and meet the diverse needs of any optometry setting. By keeping these essential optometric pharmaceuticals on hand, you can streamline procedures and deliver exceptional care. 

Benefits of Diagnostic Strips 

Diagnostic strips, such as fluorescein strips, are indispensable tools in optometry. Here are the key benefits of incorporating these strips into your practice: 

• Item Numbers: 1030511 and 1030513 
• Description: BioGlo™ Fluorescein Strips 1mg (Box of 100) and (Box of 300) 
• Use: Diagnostic strips for corneal abrasions and tear film analysis. 
• Why Keep in Stock: Easy-to-use, sterile strips that provide accurate diagnostics, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of your patient examinations. 

Accurate Diagnosis: Fluorescein strips help identify corneal abrasions and ulcers by staining areas of epithelial cell loss, visible under a cobalt blue light. They also aid in detecting foreign bodies on the cornea or conjunctiva by highlighting areas where foreign material has caused damage. 

Efficiency: Diagnostic strips are straightforward to apply and provide immediate results, allowing for swift diagnosis and treatment decisions during patient visits. Their non-invasive nature minimizes discomfort for the patient while still providing valuable diagnostic information. 

Enhanced Examination: Fluorescein strips can assess the tear film and diagnose conditions such as dry eye syndrome. They help evaluate tear breakup time (TBUT), crucial for diagnosing tear film instability. These strips are also useful in evaluating the fit and movement of contact lenses by highlighting areas of poor lens adherence or excessive movement. 

Patient Comfort: The application of diagnostic strips involves minimal discomfort, making it a patient-friendly option for routine exams and follow-ups. Some diagnostic strips, like fluorescein sodium with benoxinate, combine a diagnostic dye with a local anesthetic, further enhancing patient comfort during procedures. 

Versatility: Diagnostic strips can be used in various settings, from routine check-ups to emergency care, making them a versatile tool in an optometrist’s arsenal. They are compatible with different light sources, such as slit lamps and hand-held blue light sources, to provide clear and detailed visualization of eye structures. 

Cost-Effective: Diagnostic strips are relatively inexpensive yet provide significant diagnostic value, making them a cost-effective choice for practices of all sizes. Being single-use, they ensure sterility and reduce the risk of cross-contamination between patients. 

Post Mydriatic Products 

After an eye exam or procedure involving pupil dilation, it’s essential to provide patients with adequate protection and comfort as they wait for their pupils to return to normal size. Here are the top post-mydriatic products that should be part of your practice: 

Rollens Post-Mydriatic Specs

• Item Number: 1031047 
• Description: Rollens® Post-Mydriatic Glasses – Gray 
• Use: These disposable sunglasses are designed to protect patients’ eyes from bright light following pupil dilation. 
• Benefits: Made from flexible, soft material, they are comfortable for patients to wear. They provide effective UV and bright light protection, helping patients transition comfortably back to normal lighting conditions. Easy to distribute and disposable, they ensure hygiene and simplicity for both patients and staff. 

Post Mydriatic with Temples 

• Item Number: 1302010 
• Description: Post Myds With Temples – Adult – Bulk Bx100 
• Use: Protective eyewear with temples to provide a secure fit for patients after dilation. 
• Benefits: The addition of temples ensures the eyewear stays in place, providing better stability and comfort. Made from robust materials, they can be reused or disposed of, offering flexibility in use. Enhances patient confidence and comfort when navigating post-exam environments. 

Post Mydriatic Slip Ins

• Item Number: 1302046 
• Description: Post Myd Slip Ins – Adult – Bulk Bx250 
• Use: Slip-in style protective eyewear designed for post-dilation protection. 
• Benefits: The slip-in design allows for quick and easy application, suitable for patients of all ages. Cost-effective solution for bulk distribution, making it ideal for high-volume practices. Offers effective shielding from bright lights and UV rays, ensuring patient safety and comfort. 

Stocking post-mydriatic products provides immediate protection from bright lights and UV rays, reducing patient discomfort and the risk of photophobia following dilation. This enhances the patient experience and demonstrates your commitment to their comfort, fostering loyalty and satisfaction. These products streamline the post-exam process, improving patient flow and reducing wait times. Disposable options promote hygiene and minimize maintenance, saving time and resources. Offering various styles caters to diverse patient needs, enhancing care and supporting your practice’s reputation for comprehensive service, ultimately driving business growth and success. 

Essential Dry Eye Therapies 

Dry eye syndrome is a prevalent condition that can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life. Ensuring that your practice is stocked with effective dry eye therapy products is crucial for providing relief and improving patient outcomes. 

The Bruder Eye Hydrating Compress is an indispensable tool for treating dry eyes and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). This moist heat compress delivers consistent, therapeutic moist heat, improving tear quality and gland function. Reusable and easy to use, it can be heated in the microwave and used multiple times, offering a convenient and comfortable solution for patients. 

• Item Numbers: 1301304 and 1069376 
• Description: BRUDER EYE HYDRATING COMPRESS CA20 
• Use: This moist heat compress is designed to provide relief from dry eyes and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). 
• Benefits: Provides consistent, therapeutic moist heat, which helps to improve tear quality and gland function. Can be heated in the microwave and used multiple times, making it convenient for patients. Soft and comfortable, it ensures a pleasant experience for patients. 

Maintaining eyelid hygiene is crucial for managing blepharitis and dry eye, and lid hygiene products such as Avenova, OCuSOFT Lid Scrub, and Systane Lid Wipes are ideal for this purpose. These products effectively remove debris, bacteria, and oil build-up that contribute to dry eye symptoms. Available in pre-moistened wipes or sprays, they are easy for patients to use daily, significantly reducing symptoms and improving overall eye health. 

Why Keep Dry Eye Therapy Products in Stock 

Stocking a variety of dry eye therapy products allows you to offer comprehensive care, addressing different causes and severities of dry eye with tailored solutions. Effective dry eye management enhances patient satisfaction and quality of life and increases patient compliance. When patients have access to easy-to-use products, they are more likely to adhere to their treatment regimens. Additionally, having these products readily available in your practice ensures streamlined care. You can promptly address patient needs without delays, enhancing your reputation as a provider of high-quality, patient-centered care. 

Tonometry Supplies 

Tonometry is a critical procedure in optometry used to measure intraocular pressure (IOP) for diagnosing and managing glaucoma and other ocular conditions. Ensuring your practice is equipped with the best tonometry supplies guarantees accuracy, efficiency, and patient comfort during these essential examinations. 

One of the key supplies you should always have on hand is Ocu-Film Tonopen Tip Covers. These disposable covers are designed specifically for the Tonopen, a widely used handheld tonometer. Single-use covers maintain sterility, significantly reducing the risk of cross-contamination between patients. Moreover, they ensure precise measurements by protecting the tonometer tip from debris and damage, making the tonometry process both hygienic and convenient. 

• Item Numbers: 1064205
• Description: Ocu-Film® Tonopen Tip Covers 
• Use: These disposable covers are designed for use with the Tonopen, a widely used handheld tonometer. 
• Benefits: Single-use covers maintain sterility, reducing the risk of cross-contamination between patients. Ensures precise measurements by protecting the tonometer tip from debris and damage. Easy to apply and remove, streamlining the tonometry process. 

For those using Goldmann applanation tonometry, considered the gold standard for IOP measurement, tonometer prism heads are essential. These high-quality prism heads provide highly accurate IOP measurements, which are crucial for diagnosing and managing glaucoma. Made from durable materials, they are designed for long-term use with proper maintenance. Additionally, they are removable and easy to clean, ensuring a hygienic practice and prolonging the life of your equipment. 

In addition to specific device covers, having a supply of disposable tonometer covers for various tonometers, such as the Tonopen and Perkins tonometers, is highly beneficial. These single use covers prevent contamination and the spread of infections, making them a practical choice for busy practices. They are affordable and available in bulk, ensuring a steady supply for your practice. 

Why Keep Tonometry Supplies in Stock 

Keeping a well-stocked inventory of tonometry supplies ensures that you can provide accurate and reliable IOP measurements, which are critical for diagnosing and managing glaucoma. Quality supplies, such as disposable covers and calibration weights, maintain the accuracy and consistency of your equipment, ensuring that each measurement is precise. 

Patient safety and comfort are paramount. Disposable covers and easy-to-clean prism heads reduce the risk of cross-contamination, protecting patient health. Properly maintained and calibrated equipment also ensures that the tonometry procedure is quick and comfortable, enhancing the patient experience. 

Having all necessary supplies readily available allows for smooth and efficient patient flow. Streamlined procedures contribute to practice efficiency, while regular maintenance and calibration of your equipment help meet industry standards and best practices. This ensures your practice runs smoothly and professionally, reinforcing your reputation for excellence in patient care. 

Essential Skin Preps and Solutions 

In the hustle of maintaining a well-equipped optometry practice, it’s easy to focus on high-tech equipment and the latest pharmaceuticals. However, don’t overlook the importance of essential skin prep solutions. These often-overlooked items play a critical role in ensuring hygiene and patient safety, making them a vital product category to keep well-stocked. 

Webcol™ Alcohol Prep Pads are indispensable for any practice. These large, 2-ply sterile pads are perfect for quick and effective skin sterilization before procedures, reducing the risk of infection with their 70% isopropyl alcohol content. 

• Item Numbers: 1046846
• Description: Webcol™ Alcohol Prep Pad Large, 2-Ply Sterile 200/box 
• Use: These sterile alcohol prep pads are used to clean the skin, ensuring it is free from bacteria and other contaminants before procedures.
• Benefits: Provides quick and effective sterilization, reducing the risk of infection. Saturated with 70% isopropyl alcohol, highly effective at killing bacteria and viruses. Large size and 2-ply thickness make them robust and easy to use for various applications.

Kimwipes™ are indispensable for maintaining the cleanliness and functionality of your optical equipment. Ensuring that you never run out of these staples will help keep your practice well-organized and prepared for any situation. 

• Item Numbers: 1015275 and 1015276 
• Description: Kimwipes™ – 1-ply – 8.4″ x 4.4″ and other options
• Use: Kimwipes™ are low-lint wipes used for cleaning delicate optical equipment and lenses.
• Benefits: Safe for use on sensitive equipment without scratching or leaving residue. Disposable and easy to use, ensuring cleanliness and reducing the risk of cross-contamination. Ideal for cleaning eyeglasses, contact lenses, and various optical instruments. 

Contact Lens Cases 

Almost as easily overlooked as essential skin preps and solutions, contact lens cases are crucial for the safe storage and organization of contact lenses, preventing contamination and damage. Soft Lens Flat Packs, for instance, offer compact and convenient solutions for everyday use and travel, minimizing the risk of lens mix-ups and keeping lenses in optimal condition.

• Item Numbers: 1074490
• Description: SOFT LENS FLAT PACKS, ASSORTED  
• Use: These flat packs are used for the safe storage and organization of soft contact lenses.
• Benefits: Keeps contact lenses safe from contaminants and damage. Assorted packs help patients keep track of their lenses, reducing the risk of mix-ups. Compact and easy to use, making them ideal for travel or everyday storage.

Diagnostic Lenses

Having a range of high-quality diagnostic lenses is essential for any optometry practice, enabling detailed examination and diagnosis of various eye conditions. One of the key diagnostic lenses you should stock is the Volk® 90D Slit Lamp Lens. Known for its exceptional performance, this lens is invaluable for high-resolution imaging of the retina during slit lamp examinations. 

The Volk® 90D lens provides clear and detailed views of the retina, which are crucial for diagnosing retinal conditions. Its wide field of view allows for comprehensive examinations, ensuring that no detail is missed. Made from high-quality materials, this lens is designed for long-lasting performance and reliability, making it a staple in any optometrist’s toolkit. 

• Item Number: 1032987 
• Description: Volk® 90D Classic Slit Lamp Biomicroscopy Lens, Black 
• Use: This lens is used for high-resolution imaging of the retina during slit lamp examinations. 
• Benefits: Provides clear and detailed views of the retina, essential for diagnosing retinal conditions. Offers a broad view of the retina, facilitating comprehensive examinations. Made from high-quality materials, ensuring long-lasting performance and reliability. 

Additionally, the Volk® 20D Lens is another essential diagnostic tool, known for its versatility and wide field of view, making it perfect for both routine and detailed retinal examinations. 

• Item Number: 1032946 
• Description: Volk® 20D Classic Indirect BIO Lens, Black 
• Use: This lens is used for routine and detailed retinal examinations. 
• Benefits: Provides a wide field of view, essential for comprehensive retinal examinations. Versatile and reliable, it is a valuable addition to any optometry practice. 

By incorporating the Volk® line of diagnostic lenses into your practice, you ensure that you are equipped to perform thorough and accurate eye examinations. These lenses are vital for diagnosing a wide range of eye conditions, from retinal disorders to glaucoma, ensuring that you can provide the highest level of care to your patients.