Customers have been warned not to use more than 20 types of over-the-counter eyedrops that could potentially lead to infections and blindness, the FDA released in a report last week.
The eyedrops include those sold at several retailers, including major drug stores CVS and Rite Aid along with retail giant Target.
At CVS, the eyedrops included eight different kinds of "lubricant eye drops" along with a kind of multi-action relief drops.
"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," CVS told Newsweek in a statement.
"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."
Rite Aid sold the same multi-action relief drops along with five kinds of lubricant eye drops.
"Due to safety concerns identified by the FDA, we are removing the applicable Rite Aid branded products from our store shelves," Rite Aid told Newsweek.
Target meanwhile sold three different types of the Up&Up eyedrops affected by the possible contamination.
If you've purchased any of the impacted eyedrops, the FDA recommends you stop using them immediately and avoid any remaining on store shelves.
FDA asked the retailers to recall the items last week after inspectors discovered unsanitary conditions and bacteria at the facility where the drops were produced. However, it is unknown at this time where that facility is or when it was last inspected.
There have been no reports of injuries related to the eye drops, but the FDA is encouraging doctors and patients to report cases through their online system.
Target, Rite Aid and CVS are removing the products from store shelves and websites, but the FDA warned that some products listed under the Leader, Rugby and Velocity brands may still be available in certain stores and online.
Federal officials previously linked dangerous bacteria to eyedrops released by two companies, EzriCare and Delsam Pharma, this year. From those eyedrops, at least 80 people have gotten eye infections, the CDC reported.
Signs of an Eye Infection
If you've purchased and used any over-the-counter eyedrops from the retailers, there are certain signs to look out for in case of infection.
If you experience any pain or discomfort in your eye or an off-color in your eye or eyelids, that's an indication your eye might be affected.
Those experiencing blurry vision or light sensitivity might also be at risk of an eye infection, along with crust in or around the eyeball.
If untreated, eye infections can lead to severe complications, including total blindness.
Since there are many types of eye infections, you should speak to a doctor if you notice any worrying signs. Often antibiotics are required to treat the infection and restore your eye to its previous state.
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
About the writer
Suzanne Blake is a Newsweek reporter based in New York. Her focus is reporting on consumer and social trends, spanning ... Read more
