Hi everyone, Dr. Allen here. Today, we're diving into a crucial and concerning topic: the recent FDA recall of several eye drop brands. Unfortunately, these recalls have been linked to serious health issues, including blindness and even a few reported deaths. The FDA has issued multiple recalls in 2023, with the most recent one occurring on October 27th. This recall affects eye drops sold at major retailers like CVS, Target, and Rite Aid.

In this video, we'll cover the eye drops included in the latest recall, how to verify the safety of your eye drops, and share tips to ensure you're using them correctly. Let's get started.

FDA's Latest Recall: Eye Drops to Avoid

On October 27th, the FDA warned consumers not to purchase or use 26 over-the-counter eye drop products due to infection risks. The affected brands include:

• CVS Health
• Leader
• Rugby
• Rite Aid
• Target Up & Up
• Velocity Pharma
• Walmart Equate

The FDA advises consumers to properly discard these products. We'll include a reference link in the description below for you to check the full list on the FDA website.

Rising Concerns Over Eye Drop Safety

Eye drop recalls have become increasingly common. In May, the CDC reported that 81 people developed a serious drug-resistant infection, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, linked to contaminated eye drops. This infection can severely damage the eye within 24 hours, leading to blindness and, in rare cases, death.

Beware of Counterfeit Eye Drops

The rise of counterfeit and fraudulent eye drops is alarming. These products are often sold online and can mimic legitimate brands. At a recent American Academy of Optometry meeting, I saw firsthand how convincing these fake medications can be. Always verify your eye drops through reliable sources.

How to Verify Eye Drop Safety

1. FDA Website: Always check the FDA website for the latest recall information.
2. Eye Drop Safety.org: This site, funded by the Dry Eye Foundation, acts as a search engine to verify the safety of eye drops. It can alert you to any recalls or suspicious ingredients.

Steps to Take if You Suspect an Infection

If you suspect an eye infection from using recalled eye drops, contact an eye care specialist immediately. An optometrist or ophthalmologist can perform a swab test to identify the infection and provide appropriate treatment. If you don't have access to a specialist, visit a local urgent care clinic, your family doctor, or the ER in emergency cases.

Pro Tips for Safe Eye Drop Use

1. Wash Your Hands: Always wash your hands with soap and water before and after using eye drops.
2. Avoid Contamination: Do not let the dropper tip touch your eyelashes, skin, or eyeball.
3. Discard Old Drops: Dispose of eye drops that are expired or open for more than 30 days.
4. Don't Share: Never share eye drops with others.
5. Refrigerate Drops: Storing eye drops in the fridge can provide a cooling effect and ensure proper application.

Product Recommendation: Magic Touch

Magic Touch is a medical-grade silicone fingertip cover that helps apply eye drops without contamination. It’s antimicrobial and can be washed for repeated use.

Conclusion

Thanks for watching! If you found this video helpful, please share your experiences with recalled eye drops in the comments. For more tips on eye drop usage, check out my other videos linked here. Stay informed and take care of your eyes. See you in the next one!