On May 23, 2023, U.S. Health authorities issued a warning regarding a significant recall of popular eye drops as they have caused another fatality, bringing the total number of deaths to four. Discover which products should be avoided.
Over ten brands of artificial tears have been recalled due to contamination with Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria, which is resistant to standard antibiotics.
Despite the recall being announced in February, these hazardous products continue to claim lives and impact people’s health.
Regrettably, a fourth individual in the US has passed away due to exposure to the bacteria found in the eye drops. Additionally, 14 people have experienced blindness, and four others have undergone eye surgery to remove their eyes.
Health authorities strongly advise individuals who have recently used these products to seek immediate medical attention.
Find out which eye drops are affected by the recall and should not be used.
If you are using any of these brands, it is highly recommended to immediately stop using them, as there is a risk of losing your eyesight. Some of the products may also have fatal consequences.
Global Pharma, an India-based company, recalled all lots of its EzriCare and Delsam Pharma brands of ‘Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops’ on February 2 due to potential bacterial contamination.
This recall was initiated following an investigation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) into a series of bacterial infections across multiple states believed to be associated with these eye drops.
At the time of the recall, there were 55 reports of adverse reactions to the drops, including eye infections, permanent vision loss, and one death caused by a bloodstream infection.
Global Pharma also recalled one batch of ‘Artificial Eye Ointment’ distributed by Delsam Pharma on February 24, again due to possible microbial contamination.
Another manufacturer, Apotex, recalled six lots of its own brand of glaucoma drops, known as ‘Brimonidine Tartrate Ophthalmic Solution, 0.15%,’ on March 1. These drops are prescribed to patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.
The recall was initiated due to concerns that cracks in the caps of some units could compromise the sterility of the drops, leading to potential infections.
Pharmaceutical firm Pharmedica USA also issued a recall on March for two lots of ‘Purely Soothing, 15% MSM Drops’ due to sterility concerns.
How concerned should you be?
As of May 15, the CDC had identified 81 patients across 18 US states who were infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
This bacteria, which naturally occurs in the environment, can spread to humans through exposure to contaminated water or soil. It can also be transmitted from person to person.
Drug-resistant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa cause over 30,000 infections annually among hospitalized patients in the US, resulting in more than 2,500 deaths.
Health authorities strongly urge patients to immediately discontinue using the recalled eye drops, even if they have not experienced any adverse reactions yet.
Patients who have previously used these potentially unsafe products, as well as those currently using them, should contact their doctor and inquire about safe alternatives.
What to do if injured by these recalled products?
If you have been injured by any of the recalled products, it is important to take the following steps:
- Seek immediate medical attention: If you are experiencing any adverse reactions or injuries as a result of using the recalled eye drops, it is crucial to seek medical help without delay. Contact your healthcare provider or visit the nearest emergency room for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment.
- Document your symptoms and injuries: Make sure to keep a record of your symptoms, injuries, and any medical treatments you receive. Take photos of any visible injuries, such as eye redness, swelling, or other related complications. These records can be valuable for future reference and potential legal purposes.
- Report the incident: Inform the appropriate authorities about your injury caused by the recalled products. You can report the incident to the manufacturer of the product, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), or your local health department. Providing this information helps to raise awareness and ensures that appropriate actions are taken to prevent further harm.
- Contact our law firm: Consider consulting with a personal injury lawyer who represents injury victims in product liability cases. We can provide guidance on your legal rights, help you understand the options available to you, and assist in pursuing a legal claim for compensation if appropriate.
Remember, your health and well-being should be the top priority. By seeking medical attention and taking the necessary steps, you can address your injuries and contribute to preventing future incidents related to the recalled products.
CONTACT PARKER WAICHMAN LLP FOR A FREE CASE REVIEW
Were you or a loved one harmed by a contaminated eye lubricant product? Parker Waichman LLP helps families recover monetary compensation for harm caused by a dangerous product. For your free consultation, contact our law firm today by using our live chat or calling 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529).
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