FDA warns patients not to purchase eye drops from six brands

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cautioned consumers against purchasing 26 over the counter eye drop products from six brands due to a risk of eye infection.

A full list of the eye drop retailers and products is available on the FDA website.

The brands affected by the recall include CVS Health, Leader, Rugby, Rite Aid, Target Up & Up and Velocity Pharma.

The FDA highlighted that CVS, Rite Aid and Target are removing the affected products from shelves and website listings, but they may still be available to purchase in store and online.

“FDA is warning consumers not to purchase and to immediately stop using [the recalled products] due to the potential risk of eye infections that could result in partial vision loss or blindness,” the agency highlighted.

“Patients who have signs or symptoms of an eye infection after using these products should talk to their health care provider or seek medical care immediately,” the FDA stated.

The FDA recommended a manufacturer recall on 25 October after agency investigators found unsanitary conditions in the manufacturing facility alongside positive bacterial test results from critical drug production areas.

“These products are intended to be sterile. Ophthalmic drug products pose a potential heightened risk of harm to users because drugs applied to the eyes bypass some of the body’s natural defences,” the FDA highlighted.

The FDA is yet to receive any adverse event reports relating to eye infections caused by the recalled products.