FDA Cautions Against Specific Eye Drops Over Infection And Vision Risk
According to a report by Reuters, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning on Friday, cautioning consumers not to purchase or use specific eye drops from various brands, including CVS Health Corp and Cardinal Health. These eye drops have the potential to cause eye infections and, in some cases, lead to vision loss. The FDA's recommendation pertains to 26 over-the-counter eye drop products typically used for dry eye symptom relief and alleviating eye irritation, the report stated.
Reportedly, the affected eye drops are distributed by CVS Health, Rite Aid, Cardinal Health, Target's up & up brand, and Velocity Pharma. The FDA further disclosed that its investigators discovered unsanitary conditions in the manufacturing facility and have called on the manufacturer to recall all lots of the product.
While the FDA expressed concerns that using certain eye care products from these brands could result in partial vision loss or even blindness, it noted that it has not received any "adverse event reports" of eye infections associated with these products. CVS, Rite Aid, and Target have responded by removing the products from their store shelves and websites, the report from Reuters said. The FDA urged against purchasing products branded as Leader, Rugby, and Velocity, indicating that they may still be available in stores and online.
CVS promptly ceased the sale of products supplied by Velocity Pharma upon FDA notification and is offering full refunds to affected customers. Cardinal Health and Velocity Pharma have not yet commented on the matter. The FDA recommends consumers properly dispose of these products and advises anyone experiencing signs or symptoms of an eye infection after using them to consult a healthcare provider or seek immediate medical attention.
Earlier this month, the FDA issued warnings to eight companies, including CVS and Walgreens Boots Alliance, regarding the manufacturing or marketing of unapproved eye products.
( Reuters)
