Eye Drop Recalls in 2023

There have been multiple recalls of eye drops in 2023, raising concerns about the safety and quality control measures within the pharmaceutical industry. The potential risks associated with using contaminated eye drops include total blindness or partial vision loss. As a result, several victims have filed product recall lawsuits to help them get compensation for injuries as a result of using various recalled eye drops.

At The Barnes Firm, our team of experienced attorneys handle product-related lawsuits, and will develop a legal strategy to protect your rights in order to help you secure a favorable outcome. 

Here is what you need to know about the eyedrop recalls in 2023 and what you can do.

What’s Going On With Eye Drop Recalls?

The FDA has recently issued warnings and recalls related to certain eye drops. These recalls stem from the presence of an ingredient called methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) in the eye drops, which is not approved for use in eye-related products in the United States. Using unapproved ingredients in these products can pose serious health risks.

Additionally, the CDC has raised the alarm due to reports of around 81 patients in 18 states with a rare bacteria, namely VIM-GES-CRPA, after using EzriCare artificial tears. These bacteria can cause severe infections, including eye infections, and they are difficult to treat due to their antibiotic resistance.

The consequences of using the recalled eye drops are quite serious. Reports indicate over 14 patients going blind and others needing surgical removal of their eyeballs. The FDA recommends that those owning these eye drops discard them according to their instructions, and those already injured seek immediate medical assistance. 

Some of the eye drop medicals recalled in 2023 include the following:

• CVS Health Lubricant Eye Drops 15 ml
• CVS Health Lubricant Gel Drops
• Brimonidine Tartrate Ophthalmic Solution, 0.15% 
• Dr. Berne’s MSM Drops 5% Solution 
• Clear Eyes Once Daily, Eye Allergy Itch Relief 
• Delsam Pharma’s artificial tears
• Leader (Cardinal Health) Dry Eye Relief 10 ml
• Up&Up Extreme Relief Dry Eye 15 ml
• Rugby (Cardinal Health) Lubricating Tears Eye Drops 15 ml
• Rite Aid Gentle Lubricant Gel Eye Drops 15 ml
• Target Up&Up Dry Eye Relief Lubricant Eye Drops 30 ml
• Velocity Pharma LLC Lubricant Eye Drop 10 ml 
• EzriCare artificial tears 
• Delsam Pharma Artificial Eye Ointment

The FDA advises consumers to always be cautious when using over-the-counter medications and consult their healthcare provider for safe and approved alternatives.

Why Are These Eye Drops Being Recalled?

The recall of these eye drops is primarily due to concerns related to safety and efficacy. Several reports linked different products with eye problems. 

EzriCare, an artificial tears product, was associated with an outbreak of an extensively drug-resistant strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria can cause severe eye infections due to their drug-resistant nature, making it challenging to treat. This contamination raises significant health concerns, according to CDC reports. 

Also, EzriCare and Delsam Pharma’s artificial tears were linked to the same outbreak of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This highlights the widespread issue of bacterial contamination within these eye drops. Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections can lead to serious eye conditions and even vision loss. 

Another product linked to eye infections was brimonidine tartrate ophthalmic solution. This is typically prescribed for individuals with glaucoma or ocular hypertension to lower intraocular pressure. However, the product had faulty caps that could lead to unsterile solutions, according to the FDA. The eye drops could become contaminated due to the cap issue, potentially exposing patients to infections or complications. 

Additionally, Teva Pharmaceuticals issued a recall for their specific eye drop bottles. They were reported to have failed to pass the impurity testing. The recall affected over 700,000 bottles of the product.

These are only a few of many reports linking eye drops with eye injuries. Additionally, these 2023 recalls indicate the need for rigorous quality control and adherence to regulatory standards.

Can I Know if I Have an Eye Infection?

Eye drops tainted with the bacteria resulted in infections. In a few cases, the infections led to death across different states, as reported by the CDC. These eye infections can manifest with various symptoms, including:

• Redness: One of the most common signs of an eye infection is redness in the white part of the eye (conjunctiva).
• Eye discharge: Depending on your infection type, you may experience discharge from the eye. It can be watery, thick, or even yellow or green.
• Itchiness or Irritation: Infected eyes can feel itchy and irritated.
• Swelling: Infections can lead to swelling of the eyelids and the area around the eye.
• Pain or discomfort: Eye infections can cause pain or discomfort, often described as a gritty or burning sensation.
• Sensitivity to light: You may become more sensitive to light, a condition called photophobia.
• Blurred vision: Some eye infections can affect your vision, causing it to become blurry.
• Crusting: In the morning, you may notice your eyelashes stuck together due to dried discharge.
• Foreign body sensation: Eye infections from some drops may feel like there’s something in your eye, even if there isn’t.

If the eye infection is suspected to be linked to the recalled eye drops, it is important to document your symptoms. The symptoms can help demonstrate a correlation between product use and the onset of the infection and can be used as legal proof of the extent of suffering, medical expenses, and impact on your life. 

What To Do After I Suffer Injuries Due To Eye Drop Usage?

If you’ve suffered injuries due to the usage of eye drops, you need to take certain steps to ensure your well-being and potentially aid in your recovery. Our lawyers recommend taking the following steps: 

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

If you believe that the recalled product has caused you or your loved one to have injuries, you need to see a medical professional immediately. Seeking medical attention can help victims in the following ways:

• Medical professionals will accurately diagnose the nature and severity of the injuries
• Timely medical intervention may prevent complications that worsen without prompt treatment
• Medical records create an account of your injuries and treatment to be used when filing lawsuits
• If the injuries are suspected to be caused by recalled eye drops, a medical professional can help establish a link between the product and your condition 
• Medical professionals can provide expert guidance on the best course of action, including necessary surgeries or specialized treatments
• Medical records provide concrete evidence of the injuries 

Preserve Evidence

Keep the eye drops and packaging as evidence. This is important if you believe the product may have caused your injuries. Preserving evidence can help establish a connection between the product and your condition.

Consult an Attorney

If you suspect that the injuries resulted from a defective or dangerous product, consult a product liability lawyer. They will counsel you on your legal rights and the best course of action to take in order to seek compensation.

If it’s determined that the eye drops caused your injuries due to a product defect, your attorney will file a lawsuit against the manufacturer on your behalf. This step can provide compensation for losses and injuries suffered as a result of using recalled ear drops.

Your lawyer will help you recover damages such as:

• Medical expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Lost income
• Disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment
• Loss of consortium
• Punitive damages
• Wrongful death in fatality cases

Also, your attorney will assist in proving liability, which involves establishing that the responsible party is legally accountable for your injuries. They will also manage the legal aspects of your case, including ensuring that all necessary documents and claims are filed according to the prescribed timelines. 

Additionally, your lawyer will handle communications with the defendants or their legal representatives on your behalf. This will ensure a streamlined legal process so as to pursue rightful compensation. 

Contact a Product Recall Attorney Today

If you’ve been affected by an eyedrop recall in 2023 and have suffered injuries or losses as a result, it’s essential to seek legal assistance. A product recall attorney at The Barnes Firm can help you navigate the challenges of your case and help you get the best result possible. 

Don’t hesitate to reach today to discuss your situation and explore your legal options. Your well-being and recovery are of the utmost importance to us. We will use our resources to help you get the justice and support you need. Call us today at (800) 800-0000 for a free case evaluation. 

Richard Barnes – President of The Barnes Firm

Richard Barnes: “As President of The Barnes Firm, I have dedicated my career to achieving justice in hundreds of cases for the victims of injuries caused through the fault of others. Additionally, I have been honored to have been elected Best Lawyer and a Super Lawyer”

Years of Experience: 30+ years
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