The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have warned consumers of the potential dangers of specific over-the-counter (OTC) eye drops, Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears and EzriCare Artificial Tears. They urged people to discontinue using these products immediately as they may have drug-resistant bacteria, which could lead to loss of vision and may even be fatal. Global Pharma Healthcare, the producer of EzriCare Artificial Tears and Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears products, issued a voluntary recall of both items.
Consumers and patients rely on eye drops to provide them with a range of benefits, but there are serious risks that come with potentially flawed products, including long-term injury or even fatal consequences. As we have previously noted, it is the responsibility of producers of OTC health products to ensure that their items are secure for all their intended purposes. Companies that release dangerous or contaminated items to the public can be held accountable for the harm they cause. Those who become ill or experience any other adverse effects after using contaminated or defective eye drops should seek advice from a personal injury lawyer experienced in such complex cases to discover more about their options and how to bring a lawsuit against the manufacturer.
Give us a call at 866-778-5500 or complete our online form for a free consultation.
Over-the-counter eye drops such as EzriCare and Delsam Pharma Artificial Tears provide saline-based moisture for dry or irritated eyes and may also help encourage healing on the surface and flush away any contaminated particles. Though doctors prescribe eye drops to their patients, anyone can buy these over-the-counter. Nevertheless, as is the case with other medicines, using eye drops can bring with it certain risks. While most of these risks are not serious and may only last for a short period, using contaminated or faulty eye drops can lead to serious consequences, such as vision loss or even death.
“55 people across 12 states were infected with a rare bacteria that may be resistant to treatment and could lead to death….” The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Food and Drug Administration reported that the maker of EzriCare and Delsam Pharma eye drops had to issue a recall due to the possibility of contamination. This was after the CDC informed the FDA of an investigation that indicated a connection between these eye drops and numerous eye infections, vision impairment, and hospitalizations.
In a collaboration between state and local health departments, it was discovered by the CDC that 55 people across 12 states were infected with a rare bacteria that may be resistant to treatment and could lead to death. As a result of the nationwide health alert, the FDA determined that Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Eye Ointment had the risk of being contaminated with the bacteria.
The majority of patients diagnosed with the bacteria stated that they had been using a variety of brands of artificial tears prior to contracting the infection. After an in-depth inquiry, it was determined that a large number of the patients had been using EzriCare Artificial Tears.
The FDA and CDC have revealed that contaminated artificial tears and ophthalmic solutions can lead to serious eye infections and that EzriCare and Delsam Pharma products may contain a drug-resistant strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa known as VIM-GES-CRPA. This harmful bacteria had not been documented in the US prior to this outbreak.
Though eye drops can have many helpful applications and be an acceptable treatment choice for those struggling with different eye ailments, it is important to be aware of the effectiveness and safety of such products in order to make an informed decision regarding whether or not they are the right choice. Two primary kinds of eye drops are available—those with preservatives and those that are preservative-free.
Many people would choose the preservative-free option because there is less risk of irritation of the eye with them, however, there is a risk to using them. Preservative-free options are more vulnerable to bacterial contamination, EzriCare among them. It would be smart to learn all of the advantages and disadvantages of both kinds of eye drops so you can make an informed decision.
We can help.
The CDC and FDA have reportedly identified approximately sixty individuals in thirteen states who have contracted a drug-resistant bacterial infection. Sadly, one person passed away, and five others have experienced a loss of vision due to this infection. Anyone who is exhibiting signs or symptoms of an eye infection should seek medical care right away.
Possible signs of a bacterial eye infection include:
The FDA and CDC are urging patients to stop using these OTC eye drops and suggested that those prescribed these products should speak to their treating physician about potential alternate treatments.
The FDA identified multiple infractions related to Global Pharma’s “good manufacturing practice” standards. This included inadequate microbial testing, defects, and a lack of suitable safeguards against tampering. As a result, the FDA recommended a recall of the manufacturer’s eye drop products.
If a consumer is thinking about filing a product liability claim against Global Pharma for negligence, some of the types of allegations include:
There are times when more than one claim may be applicable in pharmaceutical injury claims. For example, an eye drop injury lawsuit can include claims that the manufacturer created a contaminated product and neglected to alert purchasers of the risks associated with using the product.
Injury claims that are related to pharmaceuticals may involve more than a single party who is at fault. In order to identify those who may be held accountable, a victim can consult with a lawyer. The manufacturer, distributor, store, or shipping business may potentially be liable when it comes to these claims. Additionally, in more complex lawsuits, a doctor, drugstore, or testing lab could be the cause of the victim’s suffering and losses.
The personal injury lawyers at Console & Associates, P.C. are investigating Ezricare and Delsam eye drop claims. If you used one of these products and suffered an eye infection or eye injury as a result, you deserve to know what your legal options are. Call us at 866-778-5500 or complete our online form for a free consultation. Our no fee promise guarantees you don’t pay unless you win.
