Written By Attention all contact lens and eye drop users! It’s time to take a closer look at your go-to ophthalmic solution. Recently, five popular brands of eye drops have been recalled due to the risk of fungal infections. While these products may seem harmless, using them could put your eyes in danger. So before you reach for that bottle on your shelf, let’s dive into what this recall means and how it affects you.
Eye Drops Recalled for Fungal Infections
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recalled several brands of eye drops and ointments because they may be contaminated with a bacteria that can cause serious infections. The affected products are:
– Refresh Plus Lubricant Eye Drops, 4-pack (NDC 24208-602-04)
– Refresh Plus Lubricant Eye Drops, 8-pack (NDC 24208-602-08)
– Refresh tears Lubricant Eye Drops, 4-pack (NDC 24208-640-04)
These products were distributed nationwide in the United States through retail stores and online retailers. The FDA is advising consumers to stop using these products immediately and to dispose of them properly. If you have used any of these products and have developed an eye infection, please see a healthcare provider right away.
Who is at Risk for Fungal Infections?
Fungal infections of the eye are relatively rare, but they can occur in anyone. People with a weakened immune system, such as those with HIV/AIDS or cancer, are more likely to develop a fungal infection. Other risk factors include using contact lenses and having had a previous eye injury or surgery. Symptoms of a fungal eye infection include redness, pain, blurred vision, and discharge from the eye. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor immediately.
Symptoms of Fungal Infections
Fungal infections can cause a variety of symptoms depending on the type of fungus and the area of the body that is affected. Symptoms may include itching, redness, burning, scaling, and flaking of the skin; thinning and brittle hair; yellow or discolored nails; white patches on the tongue or inside the mouth; and inflammation or soreness in the throat. In more severe cases, fungal infections can lead to ulcers, blisters, and even death. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment for Fungal Infections
If you have been using the eye drops Zaditor or Alrex and have developed a fungal infection, you should see your doctor immediately. Treatment for a fungal infection may include antifungal medication, which can be taken orally or applied to the affected area. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the infected tissue.
Prevention of Fungal Infections
Fungal infections of the eye are serious and can lead to vision loss. Early diagnosis and treatment is important. There are several measures that can be taken to prevent fungal infections of the eye:
-Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after touching the eyes or face.
-Avoid sharing towels, makeup, or contact lenses.
-Do not touch the eyes with dirty hands.
-Do not use contaminated water to clean contact lenses or rinse them. Use only sterile saline solution or distilled water.
-Replace old contact lens cases frequently.
-Disinfect contact lenses according to manufacturer’s instructions.
