Optometry Times: FDA waves red flag over eye drops for potential risk of eye infection

Optometry Times - 11/2/23

The Harvard Drug Group and Cardinal Health have both initiated voluntary recalls for the affected Leader and Rugby branded drops supplied from Velocity Pharma. These recalls come on the heels of the recent FDA urge to consumers to avoid the purchase of and to stop using 26 over-the-counter eye drop products due to the potential risk of eye infections that could result in partial vision loss or blindness.

Three reports of adverse events, including reports of blurred vision, vision loss, and burning eyes, have been reported.

Earlier this year, the Dry Eye Foundation issued a warning against the use of certain eye drops marketed for use in the United States.

From ingredients that should not be included to ingredients that should be but are not, and improper storage and manufacturing, Sandra Brown, MD, Dry Eye Foundation board member and medical advisor, noted April 2023. The organization has been sounding the alarm since the beginning of 2022.

In April 2022, the Dry Eye Foundation alerted the FDA to 2 brands of unapproved biologic eye drops being distributed commercially as prescription drugs.

-Optometry Times