Which statement about preservatives in GP lens care solutions is true?

• A. Preservatives in some GP solutions include chlorhexidine and PAPB
• B. Preservatives are never used in GP solutions
• C. GP solutions do not require any preservative
• D. Preservatives are always harmful

Answer: (C)

Preservatives are used in some GP lens care products to prevent microbial growth, but they aren’t needed in every GP system. There are preservative‑free options, especially peroxide‑based disinfection systems, where disinfection is accomplished by the hydrogen peroxide chemistry rather than a chemical preservative left in the storage solution. Because those systems don’t rely on a preservative to keep the solution sterile, they’re considered preservative‑free. That’s why, in practice, you can encounter GP care regimens that do not require any preservative.

At the same time, many GP solutions do include preservatives (such as chlorhexidine or other agents) to maintain cleanliness of the solution and lenses in storage. So preservatives aren’t universally required for GP care; the presence or absence depends on the specific product and disinfection method. In patient counseling, it’s important to note both options and choose based on ocular sensitivity, lens material, and the product’s instructions.