Recent eye drop recalls have left many consumers concerned about the safety of their over-the-counter remedies. This blog post will delve into the reasons behind these recalls, the potential health consequences, and the legal implications for the manufacturers involved. If you have been affected by these eye drop recalls, contact Alonso Krangle LLP at (800) 403-6191 for legal advice.
The Dangers of Contaminated Eye Drops
Several eye drop brands have recently been recalled due to concerns about contamination with bacteria that can cause severe infections, which may have devastating health consequences, including blindness. Millions of consumers use nonprescription, over-the-counter eye drops daily to remedy dryness, irritation, and other mild eye conditions. The recent recalls involving Global Pharma Healthcare’s EzriCare and Delsam Pharma brands, Apotex’s Brimonidine Tartrate Ophthalmic Solution, and Pharmedica’s Purely Soothing 15% MSM Drops have left many users questioning the safety of these products.
Read more about recalled eye drops and eye injuries.
Contaminated eye drops can lead to infections in other parts of the body as well, as the eye connects to the nasal cavity through the tear ducts, and germs can move from the nasal cavity into the lungs. The most concerning contaminant identified in some of the recalled products is the drug-resistant bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which can cause infections in the blood, lungs, or other parts of the body. This bacterium is resistant to many antibiotics and is particularly dangerous for people with weakened immune systems.
Recalled Brands and Products
The following eye drop brands and products have been recalled due to possible bacterial contamination or sterility concerns:
- EzriCare and Delsam Pharma Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops (Global Pharma Healthcare)
- Delsam Pharma Artificial Eye Ointment (Global Pharma Healthcare)
- Brimonidine Tartrate Ophthalmic Solution 0.15% (Apotex)
- Purely Soothing 15% MSM Drops (Pharmedica USA)
Consumers who have purchased or used any of these recalled products should immediately stop using them and contact their healthcare provider for a safe substitute.
Identifying and Reporting Adverse Reactions
If you have used any of the recalled eye drops, it is essential to be vigilant for the following symptoms commonly associated with eye infections:
- Discharge from the eye
- Eye pain or discomfort
- Redness of the eye or eyelid
- Feeling something in the eye
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Blurry vision
Patients experiencing any signs of infection should immediately contact their healthcare provider for evaluation and treatment. Those without symptoms do not need to undergo testing but should still discontinue use of the recalled products.
Legal Implications for Manufacturers
Manufacturers have a legal duty to ensure the safety and efficacy of their products. Those who fail to do so may be held liable for any resulting injuries or illnesses. The recent eye drop recalls have already led to lawsuits against the manufacturers. For example, Global Pharma Healthcare, the manufacturer of the EzriCare and Delsam Pharma eye drops, is now facing at least one lawsuit from a Florida woman who claims that an infection caused by the contaminated eye drops led to the surgical removal of one of her eyes.
It remains to be seen how many additional lawsuits will be filed in connection with these recalls. However, it is clear that the manufacturers may be facing significant financial and reputational costs due to their failure to ensure the safety of their products.
What Consumers Can Do
If you or a loved one has been adversely affected by a recalled eye drop product, it is essential to seek legal advice from an experienced attorney. Alonso Krangle LLP is dedicated to helping consumers injured by defective products, including contaminated eye drops. Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case, determine if the manufacturer may be held liable for your injuries, and pursue the compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
If you have questions or need legal representation, contact Alonso Krangle LLP at (800) 403-6191 today for a free consultation.