FDA Warns of 26 OTC Eye Drops from Several Major Brands|OBN

The FDA has issued a warning not to purchase or use 26 over-the-counter eye drop products due to the potential risk of eye infections that could lead to partial vision loss or blindness.

If patients experience signs or symptoms of an eye infection after using these products, they should consult their healthcare provider or seek immediate medical care. These products are sold under the following brands:

● CVS Health

● Leader (Cardinal Health)

● Rugby (Cardinal Health)

● Rite Aid

● Target Up&Up

● Velocity Pharma

These products are supposed to be sterile. Ophthalmic drug products carry a higher risk of harm to users because drugs applied to the eyes bypass some of the body's natural defenses.

On October 25, 2023, the FDA recommended that the manufacturer of these products recall all lots after agency investigators discovered unsanitary conditions in the manufacturing facility and positive bacterial test results from environmental sampling of critical drug production areas in the facility. The FDA also advises consumers to dispose of these products properly.

CVS, Rite Aid, and Target are in the process of taking these products off their store shelves and websites. Products under the Leader, Rugby, and Velocity brands might still be accessible for purchase both in physical stores and online, but it is strongly advised not to purchase them.

As of now, the FDA has not received any reports of adverse events related to eye infections linked to these products.

Eye drop recall