FDA warns against potentially infectious eyedrops that could cause blindness

More than two dozen over-the-counter eyedrops brands could cause infections leading to blindness and should be discarded, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning.

It issued a warning Friday telling consumers “not to purchase and to immediately 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.”

Anyone using these products who shows signs of an eye infection should “seek medical care immediately” or talk to their health care provider, according to the FDA. Even without signs of infection, consumers should discard or return the products, the agency said.

The rogue drops are labeled with the brands CVS Health, Leader and Rugby, both from Cardinal Health, Rite Aid, Target’s Up&Up brand, and Velocity Pharma, the FDA said.

“These products are intended to be sterile,” the FDA said. “Ophthalmic drug products pose a potential heightened risk of harm to users because drugs applied to the eyes bypass some of the body’s natural defenses.”

The FDA said the recall was necessary because “agency investigators found insanitary conditions in the manufacturing facility and positive bacterial test results” in “critical drug production areas.” Officials did not identify the facility or its location.

No injuries or infections have been reported as of yet. Back in February, a different recall, of EzriCare Artificial Tears, was initiated after 12 states reported infections that resulted in three cases of blindness and one death. That recall was expanded to other brands two weeks later.

CVS said it would recall the latest problem product and issue refunds.

“Upon receiving notification by FDA, we’ve immediately stopped the sale in-store and online of all products supplied by Velocity Pharma within the CVS Health Brand Eye Products portfolio,” the pharmacy chain told ABC News. “Customers who purchased these products can return them to CVS Pharmacy for a full refund. We’re committed to ensuring the products we offer are safe, work as intended and satisfy customers, and are fully cooperating with the FDA on this matter.”

With News Wire Services