In light of a recent outbreak of bacterial infections, the Food and Drug Advisory (FDA) has issued a warning to consumers in the United States about the potential dangers of certain eye drop products. While millions of Americans use eye drops daily, the risk of infection remains extremely low. However, experts are advising consumers to opt for reputable brands and avoid certain others.
Earlier this year, more than 80 individuals were affected by a rare strain of drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacterium, which was linked to lubricating eye drops produced by EzriCare and Delsam Pharma. This outbreak led to the recall of these products by both the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Tragically, four individuals lost their lives to this infection, which can spread from the eyes to other parts of the body. Additionally, over a dozen people suffered permanent vision loss, and four had to undergo surgical removal of their eyeballs.
The FDA’s current warning extends to numerous other over-the-counter eye drop products originating from the same manufacturing facility in India. This includes popular brands available at major retailers like CVS Health, Rite Aid, Target, and Walmart. Although these products are meant to be sterile, the FDA’s investigation reportedly found unsanitary conditions at the manufacturing site. While the exact pathogens present were not disclosed, samples from the facility tested positive for certain bacteria.
It’s important to note that the products on the FDA’s watchlist have not yet been linked to any known infections. However, major retailers such as CVS, Rite Aid, and Target are proactively removing these products from their offerings. The FDA has specifically advised against purchasing products branded as Leader, Rugby, and Velocity.
For those who have already purchased any of these products, the FDA suggests disposing of them at an official drug ‘take-back’ site or consulting the agency’s ‘flush list’ for safe disposal methods.
Christopher Starr, a spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology, emphasized the importance of hygiene when using eye drops. He advised against allowing the dispenser’s tip to come into contact with the eye, skin, eyelashes, or fingers to prevent contamination.
Symptoms such as eye redness, pain, light sensitivity, or discharge should be taken seriously. If any of these symptoms are observed after using eye drops, it’s crucial to discontinue use, seek medical attention, and report the experience to the FDA.
List of Eye Drop Products on FDA’s Watchlist:
CVS Health:
- Lubricant Eye Drops (various sizes and concentrations)
- Multi-Action Relief Drops
- Lubricating Gel drops
Rugby (Cardinal Health):
- Lubricating Tears Eye Drops
- Polyvinyl Alcohol Lubricating Eye Drops
Leader (Cardinal Health):
- Dry Eye Relief
- Lubricant Eye Drops (various sizes and concentrations)
- Eye Irritation Relief
Rite Aid:
- Lubricant Eye Drops (various sizes and concentrations)
- Gentle Lubricant Gel Eye Drops
- Lubricating Gel Drops
Target Up&Up:
- Up&Up Dry Eye Relief Lubricant Eye Drops
- Up&Up Extreme Relief Dry Eye
Velocity Pharma:
- Lubricant Eye Drop
Walmart:
- Equate Hydration PF Lubricant Eye Drop
While CVS, Rite Aid, Walmart, and Target are actively removing these products, some might still be available. Consumers are advised to exercise caution and avoid purchasing products from the brands Leader, Rugby, and Velocity.
As of now, the FDA has not received any reports of infections from these products. However, they are urging manufacturers to withdraw all potentially contaminated products from the market.
