The manufacturer of eye drops sold under multiple brands has recalled its products after they have been linked to 55 cases of infection by a rare antibiotic-resistant version of a bacteria that can cause permanent eye damage including blindness, NBC News reports.
Sold under the brand names Delsam Pharma and EzriCare Artificial Tears as well as some private labels, the artificial tears were manufactured in India by Global Pharma Healthcare. The infections from antibiotic-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa have been identified in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Nevada, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wisconsin. Most products were sold through online outlets, but at least one patient reported buying eye drops at Costco.
Consumers should check the manufacturing location of eyedrops to see if they were made by Global Pharma Healthcare and dispose of products made by that company. If you use artificial tears and develop discharge from your eyes, blurry vision and a feeling like you’ve got something in your eye, see your doctor immediately.