GOC sets out its position on lissamine green

The GOC have published a statement clarifying that registrants can use CE-marked lissamine green ophthalmic strips, as long as they act within the scope of their clinical practice and in the patient’s best interests.

This position was developed after the College and other optical sector bodies set up a clinical consensus panel to review the use of lissamine green in practice, as there has been confusion over its regulatory status and whether it can be used in the UK.

Dr Sarah Cant, Director of Policy and Strategy at The College of Optometrists, says: "We are delighted to have achieved clarification from the GOC on the use of lissamine green for optometrists. The College and other optical organisations have been working together for some time to highlight the confusion about its regulation, determine its safe use in practice and ask the GOC to confirm a position. Our members will welcome the news that they can use CE-marked lissamine green ophthalmic strips in appropriate clinical circumstances.”