How do I read my prescription?

A contact lens prescription is made up of specific data which we require to fill your order. All of this information is available on the packaging of the contact lenses you are currently wearing, or from your optometrist or optician. In most states eyecare professionals are required to provide you with a copy upon request. Be sure it contains all the necessary information, including expiration date, and is signed by your eyecare professional.

1. Here is the information that we need:
   • OD = right eye
   • OS = left eye
   • Brand name (eg. Acuvue)
   • Power/Sphere/Rx (a number between -20 and +20)
   • Base Curve (a number between 8.0 and 10.0)
   • Diameter (a number between 13.0 and 15.0)
2. For astigmatic patients, we also need:
   • Cylinder (a number between -4.00 and +4.00)
   • Axis (a number between 0 and 180)
   • Cylinder and Axis are usually separated by x and read as "times"

Sample Prescriptions

A regular prescription would look like this:

• OS
  • Brand name: Acuvue
  • BC: 8.8
  • DIA: 14.4
  • SPHERE: -2.50
• OD
  • Brand Name: Optima FW
  • BC: 8.4
  • DIA: 14.0
  • SPHERE: -2.75

A prescription for astigmatism would look like this:

• OS
  • Brand name: Acuvue Toric
  • BC: 8.8
  • DIA: 14.4
  • SPHERE: -2.50
  • CYL & AXIS: -1.25 x 180?
• OD
  • Brand name: Focus Toric
  • BC: 8.7
  • DIA: 14.0
  • SPHERE: -4.50
  • CYL & AXIS: -0.75 X 95?

This information may appear complicated but in fact it is very straightforward. Just consult your current contact lens packaging for reference. If you are still having problems please contact our Customer Service Department for further assistance.

More about Prescriptions