03/24/2023
To our patients:
Please be aware of these brands of eye drops which have been recently recalled. Specifically discard EzriCare preservative free tears, due to contamination with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a total of 68 infections have been reported as of March 14. Three people have died, eight have lost vision, and four have had an eye surgically removed.
Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops distributed by EzriCare, LLC and DELSAM Pharma. On Feb. 2, the FDA issued a warning not to use EzriCare Artificial Tears because of potential bacterial contamination. The over-the-counter product was associated with severe eye infections in 55 patients, including one death. The infections were caused by a drug-resistant bacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Brimonidine Tartrate Ophthalmic Solution, 0.15%. Apotex Corp. initiated a voluntary recall for six lots of Brimonidine Tartrate Ophthalmic Solution on March 1 due to cracks in the caps. The prescription drops are used for patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. No infections have been associated with the product.
Purely Soothing 15% MSM Drops. The FDA announced on March 3 that Pharmedica USA was voluntarily recalling two lots of Purely Soothing Drops. This over-the-counter product is being recalled due to non-sterility. There have not been reports of illness or infection related to the product.
In addition to drops, the FDA has also recalled Global Pharma Healthcare Artificial Eye Ointment due to possible bacterial contamination. No infections have been associated with this over-the-counter product.
Here’s how to tell whether your eye drops are safe to use and how to recognize a potential infection
