The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued recalls for several eyedrop brands after investigations revealed bacterial contamination linked to severe eye injuries, temporary and permanent vision loss, total blindness, and at least one death. The Dellutri Law Group, PA is investigating the situation and offering legal counsel and representation to injured consumers across Florida.
If you used a recalled eyedrop product and suffered an eye infection, vision problems, or other serious complications, you may be entitled to compensation. Our Florida eyedrop recall attorneys can help you understand your rights and pursue the recovery you deserve.
Recalled Eyedrop Products
The FDA recalls have targeted multiple brands of eyedrops commonly used to treat dry eyes, irritation, and increased ocular pressure. The affected products were sold nationwide, including in Florida, California, Texas, New York, New Jersey, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin, Nevada, and Connecticut.
The FDA has recalled these eyedrop products:
- EzriCare Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops
- Delsam Pharma Artificial Eye Ointment
- Apotex Brimonidine Tartrate Ophthalmic Solution, 0.15%
- Pharmedica Purely Soothing, 15% MSM Drops
- Aru Pharma Lubricant Eye Drops
Most of these products were manufactured by Global Pharma Healthcare. If you own any of these products, stop using them immediately. Seal the container tightly and place it in a location inaccessible to children and pets. Do not return the product to the manufacturer — it may be important evidence in a potential lawsuit. Contact our office first so we can advise you on the next steps.
Health Risks of Contaminated Eyedrops
Each type of recalled eyedrop appears to have been contaminated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria or a similar strain. This type of bacteria can cause severe infections, particularly in people with compromised immune systems. FDA research shows that dozens of people have suffered eye injuries and related complications from contaminated eyedrops, and at least one person died from complications caused by an eye infection.
Eye infections caused by contaminated eyedrops have been linked to:
- Permanent eye injury
- Temporary vision loss
- Total blindness
- Death
Notably, none of the recalled eyedrops contain benzalkonium chloride (BAK), a common preservative used in many eyedrop solutions. While BAK has been associated with dry eye and irritation in some users, it also prevents bacteria from multiplying in the solution. The absence of BAK in these products may have contributed to the bacterial contamination.
Why Eyedrop Manufacturers May Be Liable
Product manufacturers have a legal obligation to ensure their products are safe for consumers when used as intended. When a product is contaminated, mislabeled, or otherwise unsafe, the manufacturer, distributor, or other parties in the supply chain may be held liable for injuries caused — similar to the legal claims filed in CPAP machine lawsuits involving defective medical devices.
Eyedrop manufacturers could be liable for harm caused by contaminated products due to:
- Strict product liability: Manufacturers must sell products that are reasonably safe when used as intended. A contaminated product that causes injury may meet the standard for strict liability regardless of the manufacturer’s intent.
- Negligence: If the manufacturer knew or should have known about the contamination and failed to take timely corrective action, negligence claims may apply.
- Failure to warn: If the manufacturer did not adequately warn consumers about the risks associated with the contaminated product, additional liability may arise.
The Dellutri Law Group is investigating whether the manufacturers of the recalled eyedrops knew about the contamination before issuing recalls and whether they took appropriate action to protect consumers.
Potential Damages in an Eyedrop Recall Lawsuit
If you were injured by a recalled eyedrop product, you may be able to recover compensation for the losses you have suffered. Damages in a product liability lawsuit can vary depending on the severity of the injury and its impact on your life.
Potential damages may include:
- Medical treatment costs, including future treatments and surgeries
- Costs of living changes caused by vision loss or blindness
- Lost wages if vision loss affects your ability to work
- Reduced enjoyment of life caused by eye injuries and vision loss
- Emotional trauma and mental anguish
- Wrongful death damages if a loved one passed away from an eye infection caused by contaminated eyedrops
Our attorneys work to calculate the full extent of your losses and pursue the maximum compensation available under Florida law.
Find Out If You Have a Claim Today
The Dellutri Law Group, PA and our Florida eyedrop recall attorneys are here to help as many people as possible explore their legal options after being harmed by a contaminated product. If you have questions about starting a claim, contact our firm immediately — there may be limited time to take legal action.
You might have a claim if:
- You used any of the recalled eyedrop products listed above
- You suffered an eye infection, vision loss, or other complication after using a recalled product
- A loved one passed away from an infection linked to contaminated eyedrops
Contact our Florida eyedrop recall attorneys today for a free consultation. We can evaluate your situation, explain your legal options, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
