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Reporting a Medication Error

Important Recall: Over-The-Counter (OTC) Artificial Tears Linked to Serious Bacterial Eye Infection

<p>Posted February 3, 2023<br />Updated February 27, 2023 (adding Delsam Pharma's Artificial Eye Ointment to the list of products not to use)<br />July 21, 2023: Information current (no new updates on the content below). </p>

Artificial tears are eye drops that can be purchased over-the-counter(OTC) to provide temporary relief of burning, irritation, and redness due to dry eyes. There are many different brands and generic products available.

Recently, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about artificial tears products manufactured by GlobalPharma Healthcare Private Limited due to bacterial contamination. The warning states to immediately stop using and not purchase the following products:

  • EzriCare Artificial Tears (Figure 1)
  • Qpack Artifical Tears (Figure 2)
  • Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears (Figure 3)
  • Delsam Pharma's Artificial Eye Ointment (Figure 4)

This warning came after 55 people in 12 states developed serious bacterial eye infections after using these artificial tears products. All of the infections were caused by the same bacteria and most people reported using the EzriCare Artificial Tears product. The eye infections have resulted in hospitalizations, permanent vison loss in one patient, and the death of another patient.

If you or a loved one has recently used any of the artificial tears eye drops listed above, monitor for signs of an eye infection. Symptoms may include eye pain, swelling, redness, drainage, or changes in vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, immediately contact your healthcare provider. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not recommend seeing a doctor for testing if you do not have symptoms.  

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