IN THE digital age, where virtually anything can be purchased with a click, regulations on medical devices can seem perplexing.
A recent claim suggests a ban on online sales of contact lenses, sparking both curiosity and concern.
Is it true that selling contact lenses online is prohibited, and what are the implications?
Verdict:
TRUE
According to MyCheck.my, the sale of contact lenses and other optical devices online is indeed prohibited in Malaysia.
This restriction has been in effect since 2021, as outlined by the Malaysian Optical Council (MOC).
The Medical Device Authority (MDA) does not issue approvals for online sales of these products, reinforcing the ban to protect consumer health and safety.
Dr P. Muralitharan, chief executive of MDA, explained that optical devices and contact lenses are classified as medical devices under the Medical Device Act 2012.
They require proper registration and must be prescribed and dispensed by registered optometrists, as per the Optical Act 1991.
This regulation aims to ensure that consumers receive the correct prescription and product for their vision needs.
Those who defy this regulation by selling contact lenses online without MDA approval are violating the Medical Device (Advertising) Regulations 2019.
Offenders risk facing fines of up to RM200,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.
The MDA is committed to taking stringent action against any violators, including online platforms that facilitate unauthorised sales.
To further clarify the risks, Dr Azlindarita Aisyah Mohd Abdullah, an ophthalmologist, highlighted the dangers of purchasing contact lenses online.
She noted that improper storage conditions and inaccurate lens prescriptions could lead to serious eye infections or even vision loss.
Consumers are advised to consult certified optometrists and undergo eye examinations before buying contact lenses.
Dr Azlindarita also emphasised that coloured contact lenses can pose additional risks if the colouring material seeps into the eye.
Additionally, optometrist Norazizah Ismail compared improperly fitted contact lenses to tight shoes, which can cause eye swelling and corneal damage due to insufficient oxygen supply, increasing the risk of infection.
In conclusion, the claim of an online sales ban for contact lenses and optical devices is true.
The regulations are in place to ensure consumer safety and proper use of these medical devices. Consumers are urged to adhere to these guidelines by purchasing lenses from certified professionals and avoiding unauthorised online sources.
Source:
https://www.mycheck.my/more.
