Note: Story updated March 23, 2023
The FDA is warning consumers not to purchase and immediately stop using EzriCare Artificial Tears, Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears, and Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Eye Ointment due to potential bacterial contamination.
The over-the-counter products are manufactured by Global Pharma Healthcare Private Limited, which has recalled all unexpired lots of EzriCare Artificial Tears and Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears as well as Batch No. H29 of its Delsam Pharma Artificial Eye Ointment.
As of January 31, 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had identified 55 patients in 12 states with infections linked to use of EzriCare Artificial Tears. Caused by an extensively drug-resistant strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria, the infections have caused permanent vision loss and one death.
Read the full FDA statement here.
“The public should stop using these immediately,” says John A. Moran Eye Center ophthalmologist and cornea specialist Amy Lin, MD. “It’s also essential that anyone who is experiencing a sudden onset of severe red eye, severe pain, or vision decline is seen by an ophthalmologist as soon as possible.”