Popular eye products pulled from shelves—Here’s what you need to know
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If you’re one of the millions of Americans who rely on over-the-counter eye drops for dry, irritated eyes, it’s time to take a closer look at your medicine cabinet.
In a recent and urgent recall, several popular artificial tears and other eye care products have been pulled from shelves due to concerns about their safety and quality.
Here at The GrayVine, we know how important clear, comfortable vision is—especially as we age. Let’s break down what’s happening, what you need to do, and how to keep your eyes safe.
What’s Behind the Recall?
The recall was triggered after a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) audit uncovered a “manufacturing deviation” at a facility producing these eye products.
Pharmaceutical distributor AvKARE was informed of the consumer level drug recall by the recalling firm, BRS Analytical Services LLC.
The recall was issued for several products because of "unacceptable quality" where "it is not possible to rule out patient risks resulting from use of these products."
The recall is voluntary, but the FDA is fully aware and monitoring the situation.
Which Eye Drops Are Affected?
If you’ve purchased artificial tears or other lubricating eye drops between May 26, 2023, and April 21, 2025, you’ll want to check your products carefully. Here’s a list of the recalled items, along with their National Drug Codes (NDCs):
Also read: Is your favorite snack making people sick? FDA recalls grab-and-go items after 10 hospitalizations
If you’re unsure whether your eye drops are affected, check the packaging for the NDC number and lot number.
If you’re still not sure, it’s better to be safe and stop using the product until you can confirm. You can check the FDA recall notice here.
Why Is This a Big Deal?
Eye drops are a staple for many older adults, especially those dealing with dry eye, allergies, or post-surgery care.
But when the quality of these products is in question, the risks can be serious. Contaminated or improperly manufactured eye drops can lead to:
Also read: The car everyone warned you about is coming back—Would you drive America’s most infamous vehicle?
What Should You Do If You Have These Products?
1. Stop using them immediately: Don’t take any chances with your vision. Discontinue use of any recalled eye drops right away.
2. Check your inventory: Look for the NDC and lot numbers on your eye drop bottles or packaging.
3. Return the product: AvKARE is offering a full credit (including shipping) for returned products. Here’s how:
The FDA has been increasing its oversight, but it’s still wise to stay informed and vigilant. If you ever have doubts about a product, don’t hesitate to ask your pharmacist or eye care provider.
Read next: What’s touching your food? A recent lawsuit raises concerns about microplastics
Have you been affected by this recall? Do you have tips for managing dry eyes safely? Or maybe you have questions about choosing the right eye care products? Share your experiences and advice in the comments below!
In a recent and urgent recall, several popular artificial tears and other eye care products have been pulled from shelves due to concerns about their safety and quality.
Here at The GrayVine, we know how important clear, comfortable vision is—especially as we age. Let’s break down what’s happening, what you need to do, and how to keep your eyes safe.
What’s Behind the Recall?
The recall was triggered after a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) audit uncovered a “manufacturing deviation” at a facility producing these eye products.
Pharmaceutical distributor AvKARE was informed of the consumer level drug recall by the recalling firm, BRS Analytical Services LLC.
The recall was issued for several products because of "unacceptable quality" where "it is not possible to rule out patient risks resulting from use of these products."
The recall is voluntary, but the FDA is fully aware and monitoring the situation.
Several over-the-counter eye products, including artificial tears, have been voluntarily recalled due to manufacturing deviations identified in an FDA audit. Image source: FOX 35 Orlando / Youtube.
Which Eye Drops Are Affected?
If you’ve purchased artificial tears or other lubricating eye drops between May 26, 2023, and April 21, 2025, you’ll want to check your products carefully. Here’s a list of the recalled items, along with their National Drug Codes (NDCs):
- Lubricant Eye Drops Solution (NDC: 50268-126-15) — 13,104 cases recalled
- Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium Ophthalmic Solution (NDC: 50268-068-15) — 32,876 cases recalled
- Polyvinyl Alcohol Ophthalmic Solution (NDC: 50268-678-15) — 14,333 cases recalled
- Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium Ophthalmic Gel 1% (NDC: 50268-066-15) — 1,610 cases recalled
- Artificial Tears Ophthalmic Solution (NDC: 50268-043-15) — 13,872 cases recalled
Also read: Is your favorite snack making people sick? FDA recalls grab-and-go items after 10 hospitalizations
If you’re unsure whether your eye drops are affected, check the packaging for the NDC number and lot number.
If you’re still not sure, it’s better to be safe and stop using the product until you can confirm. You can check the FDA recall notice here.
The affected items, distributed by AvKARE via BRS Analytical Services LLC, were shipped between May 2023 and April 2025. Image source: TODAY / Youtube.
Why Is This a Big Deal?
Eye drops are a staple for many older adults, especially those dealing with dry eye, allergies, or post-surgery care.
But when the quality of these products is in question, the risks can be serious. Contaminated or improperly manufactured eye drops can lead to:
- Eye infections
- Irritation or allergic reactions
- Blurred vision
- In rare cases, more severe complications like vision loss
Also read: The car everyone warned you about is coming back—Would you drive America’s most infamous vehicle?
What Should You Do If You Have These Products?
1. Stop using them immediately: Don’t take any chances with your vision. Discontinue use of any recalled eye drops right away.
2. Check your inventory: Look for the NDC and lot numbers on your eye drop bottles or packaging.
3. Return the product: AvKARE is offering a full credit (including shipping) for returned products. Here’s how:
- Download and complete the “Quality to Return” form from the recall notice.
- Fax it to 931-292-6229 or email it to [email protected].
- AvKARE will send you a “Return Authorization Form” with instructions for shipping the product back.
The FDA has been increasing its oversight, but it’s still wise to stay informed and vigilant. If you ever have doubts about a product, don’t hesitate to ask your pharmacist or eye care provider.
Read next: What’s touching your food? A recent lawsuit raises concerns about microplastics
Have you been affected by this recall? Do you have tips for managing dry eyes safely? Or maybe you have questions about choosing the right eye care products? Share your experiences and advice in the comments below!
