The FDA has warned consumers about contaminated over-the-counter eye drops that have been linked to eye infections and, in some reports, serious complications including vision loss. Eye drops are intended to be sterile. If a product becomes contaminated, bacteria can be introduced directly onto the eye, increasing the risk of conjunctivitis, keratitis (corneal infection), or more severe eye disease.
Because eye infections can worsen quickly—especially when the cornea is involved—anyone who has used a recalled product and develops symptoms should seek medical evaluation promptly. If you have severe pain or vision changes, treat it as urgent.
At a glance
- What: FDA warning and recalls involving contaminated OTC eye drops
- Main concern: Bacterial contamination linked to infection and reported vision loss
- What to do: Check your products, stop using recalled items, and seek care if symptoms occur
- Urgency: Eye pain, light sensitivity, discharge, or vision changes should be evaluated urgently
Why contamination in eye drops can cause serious harm
Eye drops are applied directly to a sensitive surface, often multiple times a day. If bacteria are present, each application can increase exposure. Some infections remain on the surface, while others can involve the cornea (the clear front part of the eye), where damage can affect vision. In severe cases, infections can lead to corneal ulcers, scarring, or permanent vision impairment.
Risk may be higher for people who:
- Wear contact lenses
- Have dry eye and use drops frequently
- Have had recent eye surgery or an eye injury
- Have diabetes or immune system conditions
- Use steroid eye drops or other immunosuppressive therapy
How to identify recalled products
Recalls usually apply to specific products and batches (not every eye drop on the shelf). Check your bottle and box for:
- Brand and product name
- Lot/batch number (often printed near the barcode)
- Expiration date
- Manufacturer/distributor
If you no longer have the box, the bottle label often still contains lot or code information. When in doubt, keep the bottle and ask a pharmacist or healthcare provider to help identify the lot details.
Symptoms of eye infection to watch for
If you used eye drops and develop any of the following, contact a healthcare provider promptly:
- Increasing redness or swelling of the eye or eyelids
- Eye pain, burning, or severe irritation
- Discharge, crusting, or excessive tearing
- Blurred vision or any new vision changes
- Light sensitivity (photophobia)
- Foreign body sensation (feels like something is in the eye)
If you wear contact lenses, remove them and do not reinsert until you have been evaluated and cleared by a clinician.
What to do if you have recalled eye drops
If your eye drops match the recalled product list:
- Stop using the product immediately.
- Do not share the product with anyone else.
- Save the bottle and packaging (or take photos of the label/lot number) for records.
- Follow return/disposal instructions from the manufacturer or retailer if provided.
- Monitor for symptoms and seek care if any develop.
What to do if you have symptoms
If you have symptoms after using recalled drops:
- Contact an eye care provider or urgent care for evaluation.
- Bring the bottle/packaging or photos of lot and expiration details.
- Do not use leftover drops from the same bottle.
- Follow prescribed treatment exactly—eye infections can worsen quickly without proper care.
Seek urgent or emergency care if you have severe pain, rapidly worsening redness, swelling around the eye, fever, or vision loss.
Safety tips for eye drop use
- Wash hands before touching the bottle or your eyes.
- Do not let the dropper tip touch your eye, fingers, or any surface.
- Do not share drops between people.
- Discard bottles past expiration and store according to label directions.
Frequently asked questions
Should I stop using all eye drops?
Not necessarily. Most recalls apply to specific products or lots. Check official recall updates to confirm whether your product is included.
What if I have mild irritation only?
Mild irritation can have many causes, but if you used recalled drops or symptoms persist/worsen, seek evaluation promptly—especially if you have pain or vision changes.
Can I keep wearing contacts?
If you have any symptoms, stop wearing contacts and seek care. If you’re asymptomatic, follow normal lens hygiene and avoid any recalled products.