Eye Drops Recalled Over Non-Sterility: FDA

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that two more brands of eye drops have been recalled due to the risks posed by non-sterility. The FDA has found that the affected products, distributed nationwide, may not be sterile and may cause infections that could lead to severe harm, including blindness. These recalls come in the wake of a bacterial outbreak in which several people suffered eye infections after using contaminated eye drops.

The FDA is urging consumers who have purchased the affected products to not use them and to dispose of them immediately. The products in question are Fresenius Kabi’s TobraDex ST and Gatifloxacin ophthalmic solution, distributed by Novartis. The FDA has advised that patients with serious eye conditions such as infections or inflammation should consult with their healthcare provider to discuss alternative treatments.

The FDA has also issued a notice reminding patients of the importance of using eye drops safely. The notice advises patients to wash their hands before using eye drops and to avoid touching the dropper tip to any surface, as it can introduce germs that can cause infection. Patients are also advised to replace eye drops after six months of opening the bottle and to never share eye drops with others to prevent the spread of infection.

The recalls of these eye drops are the latest in a series of recalls affecting eye drops and other medical products due to contamination and other safety concerns. The FDA is urging consumers to stay informed about product recalls and to speak with their healthcare provider if they have any concerns about the safety of their medications.