Over the past few months, several eye drop manufacturers have recalled their products due to concerns about dangerous drug-resistant bacterial infections, causing serious health issues and even fatalities. In this blog post, we will discuss the details of these recalls, the potential legal implications for both manufacturers and affected individuals, and how the experienced lawyers at Alonso Krangle LLP can help you navigate this challenging situation.
Read more about recalled eye drops and eye injuries.
The Connection Between Eye Drops and Drug-Resistant Bacterial Infections
Recent recalls of eye drops have been linked to a drug-resistant strain of the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which has caused at least three deaths, vision loss in eight others, and even the surgical removal of four patients’ eyeballs. These infections have been traced back to artificial tears produced by Global Pharma Healthcare’s EzriCare Artificial Tears and Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears, both of which were recalled in February.
Eye drops manufactured by Apotex and Pharmedica were also recalled due to different contamination risks, though no infections have been connected to these products so far. Nonetheless, these recalls have raised serious concerns about eye drop safety in general and the potential legal implications for manufacturers and affected individuals alike.
List of Manufacturers and Products Involved in the Recalls
Several manufacturers have been involved in recent recalls:
- Global Pharma Healthcare: EzriCare Artificial Tears and Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears
- Apotex: Brimonidine Tartrate Ophthalmic Solution 0.15 percent
- Pharmedica: Purely Soothing 15 percent MSM Drops
It is crucial for consumers to stay informed about these recalls and check their eye drop products to ensure they are not using any of the affected products. If you are unsure about your eye drops, review the recall notices provided by each company for detailed information about which batch of each product was affected.
Understanding the Legal Implications of These Eye Drop Recalls
Eye drop manufacturers have a legal responsibility to ensure the safety and quality of their products. When product contamination leads to serious health issues or fatalities, affected individuals may have legal grounds for pursuing compensation for their injuries and losses through a product liability claim.
In a product liability case, the plaintiff must prove that the product was defective and that the defect directly caused their injury or harm. This can include manufacturing defects, design defects, or improper labeling and packaging. In the case of the recalled eye drops, issues related to microbial testing, inadequate packaging, and insufficient preservatives may be relevant factors in establishing liability.
The Importance of Seeking Legal Representation
If you or a loved one has suffered a serious injury, illness, or even death as a result of using contaminated eye drops, it is crucial to consult with an experienced product liability lawyer as soon as possible. A skilled attorney can help assess the merits of your case, determine the appropriate legal strategy, and guide you through the complex litigation process.
At Alonso Krangle LLP, our attorneys have successfully represented clients in product liability cases related to defective pharmaceuticals and medical devices. We understand the unique challenges that arise in these cases and are committed to advocating for the best possible outcomes for our clients.
Contact Alonso Krangle LLP for Help with Your Eye Drop Recall Case
If you or a loved one have been affected by a recalled eye drop product and are considering legal action, contact the experienced attorneys at Alonso Krangle LLP. We can help you understand your legal options and work with you to build a strong case. To schedule a free consultation and case evaluation, call (800) 403-6191 today.