FDA Approves First Pediatric Myopia-Slowing Eyeglass Lenses in US

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has authorized the marketing of Essilor Stellest eyeglass lenses, the first in the country designed to correct myopia and slow its progression in children aged 6 to 12. This approval expands treatment options beyond the previously available contact lenses for children aged 8 to 12, filling a gap especially for younger children or those unable to wear contact lenses. Clinical trials demonstrated that Stellest lenses can slow myopia progression by about 71% over two years without serious adverse events, offering a safer and easier-to-use alternative. Myopia, which affects about 40% of the U.S. population and is increasing globally, can lead to severe eye complications later in life if untreated. These lenses employ a novel design with microscopic peripheral dots that scatter light to slow eye growth during childhood. The rollout of Stellest lenses is expected soon at eye care clinics across the U.S., providing a new proactive option for managing pediatric nearsightedness.