Pioneering the Future of Eye Care

Research and development in vision care was at the forefront of discussion at today’s Johnson & Johnson Analyst Day, where we shared news about the latest innovations in contact lens technology with the investment community. We are committed to launch two new products every year – not only adjacent innovation, but solutions that are truly breakthrough.

For instance, we’ve known for many years that a range of everyday lighting situations, from artificial light to UV rays, can negatively impact eye comfort, vision and health. We are now able to meet the needs of people with light sensitivity with our first light-adapting contact lens. ACUVUE OASYS® with Transitions® Light Intelligent Technology™ contains a dynamic photochromic filter that darkens when exposed to bright light, helping the wearer manage different types of light and varying intensities of brightness throughout the day, indoors and out. The product has been cleared by the FDA, and we are planning to launch in the first half of 2019.

In Japan, we filed a regulatory application for the first combination contact lens with medicine. The drug-releasing contact lens is designed to help patients with itchy eyes due to ocular allergies—addressing a true unmet need in the market with many patients experiencing a prolonged allergy season.

We are also developing a self-powered smart lens that will dynamically change focus for patients with presbyopia, which is common in adults over age 40. To date, 150 patents have been granted. Along the way, we have invented new technical solutions, including onboard battery technology, and continue to work closely with the FDA on the regulatory pathway for this novel innovation.

At Johnson & Johnson, we believe that innovation is a company sport – it’s embedded in all that we do, and creating new products is the lifeblood of our business. Our model draws on customer insights, an understanding of unmet patient needs, strong internal and external R&D capabilities and technologies, and the power of our iconic brands to serve patients all along their care continuum – and ultimately, to help people see better, connect better, live better.