The use of over-the-counter eye drops has become commonplace, providing relief from dryness, irritation, and other mild eye conditions. However, recent recalls of several brands of eye drops due to potential contamination have left many users questioning if these products are safe. In this article, we will discuss the reasons behind these recalls, their potential dangers, and what to do if you have been using one of the recalled products.
Read more about recalled eye drops and eye injuries.
Brands and Products Involved in the Eye Drop Recalls
Several brands of eye drops have been recalled in recent months due to concerns about bacterial contamination that could lead to infections, vision loss, and even blindness. Some of the recalled brands include:
- EzriCare and Delsam Pharma “Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops” recalled by Global Pharma Healthcare in February
- Apotex “Brimonidine Tartrate Ophthalmic Solution, 0.15%” recalled in March due to concerns about compromised sterility
- Pharmedica “Purely Soothing, 15% MSM Drops” recalled in March over sterility concerns
The Dangers of Contaminated Eye Drops
Contaminated eye drops can lead to serious health issues, such as bacterial infections, vision loss, and even blindness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified 64 patients across 13 states with Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections linked to the use of contaminated artificial tears. This drug-resistant bacteria can cause severe infections in the blood, lungs, or other parts of the body and has resulted in at least three deaths and several cases of vision loss.
The risk of infections and complications from using contaminated eye drops is particularly high for individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with chronic illnesses or undergoing medical treatments like chemotherapy.
What to Do If You’ve Been Using Recalled Eye Drops
If you have been using any of the recalled eye drops, you should immediately stop using them and contact your doctor for a safer alternative. Patients who have previously used potentially unsafe products should monitor themselves for signs of infection and seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms, such as:
- Eye discharge
- Redness of the eye or eyelid
- Eye pain or discomfort
- Feeling something in the eye
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Blurry vision
Preventing Infections from Eye Drops
To minimize the risk of infections from eye drops, it is important to follow safe practices and ensure the products you use are contamination-free. Some tips for using eye drops safely include:
- Only using eye drops that are properly sealed and have not expired
- Washing your hands before using eye drops to avoid introducing bacteria into your eyes
- Being cautious not to touch the tip of the eye drop bottle to your eye or any other surfaces
- Properly storing eye drops in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Legal Actions and Claims Related to Eye Drop Recalls
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries due to using contaminated eye drops, you may be entitled to compensation. The experienced attorneys at Alonso Krangle LLP can help you understand your legal options and pursue a claim against the responsible parties. Our team has experience handling cases involving defective medical products and will work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve.
Please contact the law firm of Alonso Krangle LLP at (800) 403-6191 for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.