26 Eyedrop Products (and Counting) Have Been Recalled—Here’s Why

By: Georgia | Last updated: Dec 01, 2023

The FDA has recommended the recall of several eye drops sold by prominent retailers such as Target, CVS, and Rite Aid due to potential bacterial contamination.

Although these products have not been officially recalled, the FDA’s advisory stems from concerning test results. Consumers should remain vigilant and review the FDA’s communications for updates on the safety of these eye care products.

Identifying the Products in Question

The FDA has released a detailed list of the eye drops in question, all manufactured by the same company but distributed under multiple brand names.

An image of a CVS Pharmacy storefront with large red CVS logos and the words "minute clinic" and "open 24 hours" visible on the windows

Source: Getty Images

Customers who have purchased eye drops from CVS, Rugby/Cardinal Health, Leader/Cardinal Health, Rite Aid, Target (Up & Up), and Velocity Pharma LLC should verify their products against the FDA’s list to ensure safety.

Potential Health Risks Identified

Investigations by the FDA have uncovered unsanitary conditions at the production facility for these eye drops, along with environmental samples testing positive for bacteria.

A highly detailed close-up of a human iris, displaying a complex pattern of fibers in hues of blue, gray, and flecks of yellow-brown, encircling a deep black pupil

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This has led to the FDA’s recommendation for a comprehensive recall of all affected lots as of October 25, 2023, to prevent the risk of eye infections that may result in vision loss.

Recognizing Infection Symptoms

Users of the eye drops in question should monitor for infection symptoms such as eye pain, redness, itching, swelling, or any new changes in vision.

A professional male doctor, dressed in a white lab coat with a stethoscope around his neck, is intently reading information on a handheld tablet

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The FDA advises anyone experiencing these symptoms to consult with a healthcare provider immediately to receive appropriate medical attention and prevent further complications.

Contextualizing the Current Warning

This recent advisory is not the first of its kind, nor the first of 2023. The heightened scrutiny from the FDA on eye drop manufacturers can be seen as a response to previous incidents, including an outbreak of a deadly eye infection earlier in the year.

A man is reclined outdoors with his head tilted back as another person administers eye drops from a small, white bottle

Source: Wikimedia Commons

The FDA is proactively addressing potential hazards to prevent future health crises.

Recalling Previous Eye Drop Incidents

Earlier in 2023, the CDC and FDA jointly investigated an outbreak of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a drug-resistant bacterial infection, which resulted in severe outcomes including deaths and vision loss.

Close-up image of a pink agar plate featuring circular bacterial colonies that are clear with defined edges, some merging together

Source: Wikimedia Commons

The outbreak led to recalls of EzriCare and Delsam Pharma artificial tears, which were linked to the infections.

March Recalls and Warnings

In March 2023, Apotex had to recall its brimonidine tartrate eye drops due to defective caps, which posed a contamination risk.

A daytime view of the Apotex facility, a large industrial building with a plain facade, prominently featuring the company's name in large blue letters

Source: Wikimedia Commons

That same month, Pharmedica USA also issued a recall for its MSM drops after identifying potential contamination threats, demonstrating the FDA’s ongoing commitment to consumer safety.

Further Recalls Throughout the Year

The FDA warnings continued into the summer, specifically in August when Dr. Berne’s and LightEyes MSM drops were warned against due to contamination concerns.

A close-up photo of a medical professional wearing blue gloves administering eye drops to a patient lying down

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These incidents highlight the FDA’s rigorous monitoring process and its dedication to ensuring the sterility and safety of eye care products on the market.

September Brings More Scrutiny

September saw the FDA issue warning letters to the manufacturers of eight different brands of eye drops. Some were due to quality issues in manufacturing, while others were due to concerns over ingredients that could cause argyria.

This image captures an extreme close-up of a human eye with a hazel iris

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The habitual warnings and recalls demonstrate the complexity of ensuring product sterility and safety.

Homeopathic Products Under Review

Some of the products scrutinized were homeopathic eye drops, which the FDA generally allows unless they present significant danger.

A close-up image of a woman's face as she lies back to receive eye drops from a translucent dropper bottle held directly above her eye

Source: Wikimedia Commons

This year, some homeopathic drops were deemed risky enough to warrant FDA action, showing the agency’s proactive stance on consumer health protection.

The Issue With Natural Remedies

The FDA’s focus on homeopathic eye drops signifies a critical examination of ‘natural’ health products and their safety.

A close-up photograph of the Eyebright plant, Euphrasia officinalis, in its natural habitat, showcasing small white flowers with purple streaks and yellow centers

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This scrutiny is part of broader efforts to ensure that all health products, regardless of their “natural” claims, meet safety standards to protect consumers from potential harm.

The Importance of FDA Vigilance

The series of recalls and warnings from the FDA regarding eye drops throughout the year reflects the agency’s stringent efforts to safeguard public health.

An elderly individual reclining while receiving eye drops, administered by another person's hands

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about the safety of their eye care products by following FDA announcements and disposing of any products that are identified as unsafe.