THERATEARS� RECEIVES EUROPEAN APPROVAL FOR USE WITH CONTACT LENSES

WOBURN, MA.—March 31, 2002-- Advanced Vision Research has announced it has received ISO 9001:1994 and EN 46001:1996 certification for its TheraTears® brand Lubricant Eye Drops which will be marketed and sold in Europe as  TheraTears® Lubricant Eye Drops for contact lenses.

"In clinical studies, TheraTears has shown excellent results for soft and gas-permeable contact lens wearers in terms of performance, safety and efficacy" commented Jeffrey Gilbard, MD, company Founder and President. "We are very excited to bring a proven performer to the European market.  Our studies show that use of TheraTears on a regular basis will enhance contact lens comfort and extend wearing time.”

The Advanced Vision Research certification audit was completed on March 8, 2002.

The TheraTears formula was the result of Dr. Gilbard’s 18-year research program. In the U.S., it has become one of the most widely recommended products for dry-eye relief.  Distribution has grown rapidly in the last few years with TheraTears now available at all major drugstore, mass merchant and grocery chains nationwide.  The company has begun expanding internationally with the recent launch of TheraTears in Canada.  The European launch will follow later this year.

Advanced Vision Research is committed to eye research and the development of major advances in the treatment of eye disease.  Information on the company and its products may be obtained by contacting Advanced Vision Research at 781-932-8327, by fax at 781-935-5075 or by e-mail at info@theratears.com. Information can also obtained by visiting the TheraTears website at www.theratears.com.

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©2002 Advanced Vision Research, Inc. 660 Main Street, Woburn, MA 01801 USA. All trademarks, trade names, service marks, and logos referenced herein belong to their respective companies.