WASHINGTON, D.C. – APNews.com is reporting that health officials in the United States are warning consumers of two additional recalls of eyedrops due to the risk of contamination, which could potentially cause vision problems and serious injury. These recalls come on the heels of a previous recall last month of eyedrops manufactured in India that were linked to a life-threatening outbreak of drug-resistant infections, which resulted in at least one fatality and several cases of permanent vision loss.
The new recalls involve two separate manufacturers and were prompted by concerns over possible contamination with bacteria that could cause infections if introduced into the eye. The products affected by the recalls include prescription and over-the-counter eyedrops that are commonly used to treat a variety of conditions, such as dry eyes and glaucoma.
Officials are urging consumers to check their medicine cabinets and to stop using any recalled products immediately. They also advise seeking medical attention if any adverse effects are experienced after using these products.
The FDA issued separate recall announcements for certain eyedrops distributed by Apotex and Pharmedica after these companies reported that they would voluntarily recall several lots of their eyedrop products.
Pharmedica, a company based in Phoenix, has issued a recall of two lots of its Purely Soothing 15% MSM Drops, an over-the-counter product designed to treat eye irritation. The recall is due to concerns that problems with the product “could result in blindness.” The recall affects nearly 2,900 bottles and was prompted by issues with the product’s manufacturing in Arizona.
Consumers who have purchased the affected product are urged to stop using the drops immediately and return them to the place of purchase. The recall highlights the importance of quality control measures in the manufacturing of pharmaceutical products, particularly those intended for use in or around the eyes.
The risks associated with the use of the affected product include potential vision loss and other serious eye injuries. Consumers should be vigilant about the safety of the products they use and should report any adverse effects to their healthcare provider or the appropriate regulatory agency.
Pharmedica’s prompt action in recalling the affected product is a reminder of the critical role that manufacturers and regulatory agencies play in protecting public health. By establishing and enforcing strict quality control standards, as well as providing clear and transparent information to consumers about the risks and benefits of these products, we can help to ensure that patients receive the safe and effective treatments they need.
As the global pharmaceutical industry continues to expand, it is essential that regulatory agencies and manufacturers work together to ensure the safety and efficacy of all medications and medical devices. This includes establishing and enforcing strict quality control standards, as well as providing clear and transparent information to consumers about the risks and benefits of these products. By doing so, we can help to minimize the risk of harm and ensure that patients receive the safe and effective treatments they need.
Apotex has announced its recall of six lots of its prescription Brimonidine Tartrate Ophthalmic Solution. These eyedrops are used to treat a type of glaucoma. The company stated that it launched its recall after discovering cracks in a some eyedrop bottle caps. According to Apotex, the affected eyedrops were manufactured in Canada.
.svg){kind=small}
.avif)
.avif)
