WASHINGTON — The FDA is warning against using 26 different types of over-the-counter eye drops because they aren't sterile, increasing the risk for infections that can potentially blind users.
The 26 eye drops products are sold under the following brands:
- CVS Health
- Leader (Cardinal Health)
- Rugby (Cardinal Health)
- Rite Aid
- Target Up&Up
- Velocity Pharma
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the products are supposed to be sterile to prevent eye infections. Eye drops pose a heightened risk of passing along harmful infections because drugs applied directly to the eyes bypass some of the body's natural defenses.
Bacterial contamination could cause an infection that could blind patients.
The FDA says all of the products included in the warning, regardless of their lot number, should not be used.
CVS, Rite Aid and Target have all agreed to remove the affected products from store shelves, although Leader, Rugby and Velocity eye drops are still available online and in some retail stores, the FDA noted.
The FDA said it recommended Wednesday that the manufacturer recall all of the 26 varieties of eye drops. The warning was issued after investigators found "insanitary conditions" and bacterial contamination in critical parts of the manufacturing plant where the eye drops are made.
The FDA says they have not received any report of infections or other adverse effects related to the affected eye drops, but urged anybody with symptoms of an eye infection after using one to seek medical aid immediately.
It's not the first time in recent months that the FDA has issued warnings for non-sterile eye drops. In August, the agency issued a warning to consumers urging them to avoid two brands of eye drops because they could be contaminated with bacteria, fungus or both.
That warning was issued for "Dr. Berne's MSM Drops 5% Solution" and "LightEyez MSM Eye Drops - Eye Repair" products.