Eye Drops Recalls 2023–2024: Full List, Causes, and What to Do
Key insights on contaminated eye drops and practical advice to safeguard your vision.
Many Americans rely on over-the-counter artificial tears and prescription eye drops daily, but in 2023 and 2024, several popular brands were subject to urgent recalls due to contamination concerns, resulting in risks of sight-threatening infections and fatalities. This guide provides an up-to-date look at the impacted brands, the bacteria involved, federal safety alerts, and vital tips for protecting your eye health.
Understanding the Eye Drops Recall
The first major eye drop recalls of 2023 began in January, when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warned consumers to immediately stop using certain products associated with a multi-state outbreak of drug-resistant bacterial eye infections. Subsequent recalls followed, expanding the list of affected brands and products and emphasizing the importance of product safety for one of our most delicate organs—the eyes.
Why Were Eye Drops Recalled?
The key reason for the 2023 and 2024 recalls was product contamination. Several recalled products were found to contain, or be at high risk for, dangerous microorganisms, with some cases linked to a rare and highly drug-resistant bacterium called Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a bacterium that can cause serious infections of the eye, bloodstream, and other organs, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems, contact lens wearers, or those with existing eye conditions.
- The strain linked to some recalled eye drops was classified as extensively drug-resistant, meaning typical antibiotics may not work.
- Product sterility failures, manufacturing errors, and faulty packaging (e.g., cracked caps) led to further recalls as companies acted out of caution—even where a direct link to an outbreak had not been established.
Affected Brands and Recalled Eye Drops — Full List 2023–2024
This table and following list summarize the major brands, specific products, lot numbers, and reasons for recall from 2023 through early 2024.
| Brand / Product Name | Details / Lot Numbers | Reason for Recall |
|---|---|---|
| EzriCare Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops | NDC: 79503-0101-15 UPC: 3 79503 10115 7 | Possible microbial contamination (incl. Pseudomonas aeruginosa) |
| Delsam Pharma Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops | NDC: 72570-121-15 UPC: 3 72570 12115 8 | Potential microbial contamination |
| Delsam Pharma Artificial Eye Ointment | NDC: 72570-122-35 UPC: 3 72570 12235 3 | Potential microbial contamination |
| Clear Eyes Once Daily, Eye Allergy Itch Relief | Lots: 114349, 117396, 0120128, 114371, 123781 | Impurities, failed sterility test (not linked to outbreak) |
| Purely Soothing 15% MSM Drops | LOT#: 2203PS01, UPC: 7 31034 91379 9 LOT#: 1808051, UPC: 7 31034 91382 9 | Loss of sterility assurance |
| Brimonidine Tartrate Ophthalmic Solution, 0.15% | NDC: 60505-0564-1, -2, -3 Distributed Apr 2022–Feb 2023 | Cracked bottle caps, loss of sterility |
| Dr. Berne’s MSM Drops 5% Solution | Lot# 6786 | Contamination risks (no illnesses reported) |
| LightEyez MSM Eye Drops-Eye Repair | NDC: not provided | Potential for contamination |
Which Retailers Sold the Recalled Eye Drops?
- Major national chains: CVS, Walmart, Target, Family Dollar, Rite Aid
- Online retailers: Amazon and other e-commerce platforms
- Smaller local drugstores across the U.S.
If you purchased any of the above products at these locations (in-store or online) during late 2022 or 2023, check your packaging and lots against the list above.
What others are reading
How Many People Have Been Affected?
According to federal health reports by early 2023:
- At least 68 cases of severe eye infection across 16 U.S. states were linked to contaminated eye drops
- Affected states included: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wisconsin
- Health outcomes among patients included vision loss, permanent blindness, and multiple deaths
What Symptoms Should Consumers Watch For?
If you have used any of the recalled products or suspect possible exposure, monitor for these warning signs:
- Eye pain, redness, or swelling
- Blurred vision or sudden decrease in vision
- Yellow, green, or clear eye discharge
- Increased eye sensitivity to light
- Swelling of the cornea and surrounding tissue
- Feeling that something is in your eye (foreign body sensation)
- If the infection spreads: fever, fatigue, or sepsis symptoms
Anyone experiencing these symptoms after using eye drops should contact an eye care provider as soon as possible, especially if symptoms are severe or rapidly worsening.
How Did Contamination Occur?
Investigations pointed to several failures in product safety and manufacturing:
- Poor manufacturing practices: Issues at overseas factories, such as lack of sterility safeguards or inadequate microbial testing
- Packaging faults: Bottles with compromised caps can allow bacteria into the solution after opening
- Storage errors: Improper temperature or conditions in transit or at the retailer
What Should Patients Do Now?
- Check your medicine cabinet for any products on the recall list (compare NDC, UPC, and lot numbers).
- Stop using any recalled eye drops immediately—even if you have experienced no symptoms.
- Do not attempt to sterilize or save potentially contaminated products at home.
- Return recalled items to the store or retailer if a recall has been issued, or follow manufacturer refund instructions.
- Contact your healthcare provider for guidance, especially if you recently used the recalled product or have symptoms.
- If you wear contact lenses, switch to glasses temporarily if you develop symptoms, to reduce risk of eye injury.
How to Recognize FDA and CDC Recall Notices
The FDA and CDC post official recall notices and outbreak warnings on their websites and via press releases. Look for communications regarding:
- Brand and product name, batch/lot numbers, NDC and UPC numbers
- Reason for recall (microbial contamination, packaging fault, sterility issues)
- Advice for patients (stop use, contact provider, return policy)
Tips to Prevent Eye Infections From Eye Drops
- Wash your hands thoroughly before handling eye drops or touching the eye.
- Never share eye drops with others, as this can spread infection.
- Avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye or any other surface.
- Do not use expired eye drops: timely disposal helps prevent using degraded or contaminated solutions.
- Store eye drops as instructed—usually at room temperature, away from sunlight.
- Use single-use vials when possible, especially if you have frequent eye infections or are immunocompromised.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I check if my eye drops are recalled?
Compare the product name, manufacturer, lot number, and UPC or NDC (typically printed on the box or bottle) with those listed in FDA or CDC recall alerts and the tables in this article.
What is Pseudomonas aeruginosa and why is it dangerous?
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a type of bacteria that can cause serious, potentially blinding eye infections. The strain identified in the recall was extensively drug-resistant, making treatment especially difficult and sometimes leading to life-threatening bloodstream infections.
Can I still use artificial tears or prescription eye drops safely?
Yes, for products not on the recall list and purchased from reputable retailers. Always check for recalls and speak to your healthcare provider if unsure or if new symptoms develop.
What should I do if I’ve used a recalled product but have no symptoms?
Stop use immediately and monitor your eye health for several weeks. Contact your eye doctor for personalized advice, especially if you have underlying conditions, use contact lenses, or have a history of eye infections.
Are certain groups at higher risk?
Individuals with compromised immune systems, contact lens wearers, and those with existing eye disease may be more vulnerable to serious infections from contaminated eye drops.
Resources and Further Reading
- FDA: Official drug recall notices
- CDC: Eye infection outbreak updates and prevention guidance
- Pharmacists and Eye Care Providers: Personalized advice and updated safety alerts
With vigilance and proper hygiene practices, most Americans can continue to use eye care products safely. Staying informed about recalls and knowing how to check your products is the best defense against avoidable vision problems.
References
- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/a43399552/eye-drops-recall-2023-brands-full-list/
- https://www.goodto.com/family/family-news/eye-drop-recall-2023-list-of-brands
- https://www.searcylaw.com/how-to-check-if-your-eye-drops-have-been-recalled-due-to-contamination/
- https://www.popularmechanics.com/eye-drops-recall-2023-brands-full-list/
- https://utswmed.org/medblog/eye-drop-recall-infection/
- https://health.ucdavis.edu/news/headlines/fda-eye-drop-recall-dont-use-these-cvs-rite-aid-walmart-and-target-brands/2023/10
- https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-warns-consumers-not-purchase-or-use-certain-eye-drops-several-major-brands-due-risk-eye
- https://www.ctinsider.com/news/article/eye-care-product-recall-fda-avkare-brs-analytical-20322693.php
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