Risks and Dangers of Using Unregulated MSM Eye Drops

Understanding MSM Eye Drops

Methylsulfonylmethane, more commonly known as MSM, has become a popular supplemental health aid in recent years. Proponents claim it can help treat a variety of conditions from arthritis pain to allergies. Some companies have even started marketing MSM eye drops, touting benefits like reducing dry eye, inflammation, and redness.

But in 2022, the FDA issued a warning about Dr. Berne's MSM Drops 5% Solution and LightEyez MSM Eye Drops. Testing revealed both products were contaminated with bacteria. The products also contain MSM, which the FDA states is an illegally marketed ingredient for ophthalmic use.

This incident raises questions about the safety and effectiveness of MSM eye drops. Here's a closer look at what MSM is, the health claims surrounding it, and the risks of using uncertified eye drops.

What is MSM?

MSM stands for methylsulfonylmethane. It's an organic sulfur compound found naturally in some plants and foods like milk. MSM is also synthesized in laboratories for use in dietary supplements.

MSM has gained popularity as a dietary supplement to treat conditions like osteoarthritis, allergies, and musculoskeletal pain. Some alternative medicine practitioners believe MSM eye drops can treat eye conditions like dry eye, inflammation, and vision problems.

However, there is limited evidence that MSM is effective for any of these uses. Here's what the science says so far:

• A few small studies suggest MSM supplements may slightly reduce osteoarthritis pain and stiffness. But overall evidence is lacking.
• There's very limited evidence that MSM supplements help treat allergies, snoring, or hay fever symptoms.
• There are no peer-reviewed studies on the effectiveness of MSM eye drops for dry eye, inflammation, or other vision problems.

Currently, MSM is not FDA-approved for treating any condition. Using it in eye drops specifically goes against FDA regulations.

FDA Regulations on Eye Drops

The FDA strictly regulates over-the-counter eye drops and solutions under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic (FD&C) Act. Unlike supplements, eye drops are classified as drugs because they can affect the structure or function of the body.

Under the FD&C Act, eye drops must go through extensive testing and research to prove they are safe and effective before being approved for sale. Companies must register with the FDA and follow specific manufacturing standards.

The FDA has not approved MSM as a legal ingredient for use in eye drops or ophthalmic medications. Therefore, marketing MSM eye drops violates FDA regulations.

Bacteria Contamination Warning

In July 2022, the FDA issued a warning to consumers that certain MSM eye drop products tested positive for bacterial contamination. They advised consumers to stop using the drops immediately.

The two products affected were:

• Dr. Berne's MSM Drops 5% Solution
• LightEyez MSM Eye Drops

Testing showed these products contained high levels of gram-negative rods, a type of bacteria. Using contaminated eye drops can lead to serious infections like keratitis and vision loss.

The FDA believes the contamination was likely introduced during manufacturing. The bacteria levels exceeded the FDA's permissible limits for externally applied ophthalmic preparations.

This serves as a reminder that eye drops are not simply benign supplements. They can directly affect eye health. Unregulated products made under substandard conditions risk exposing people to dangerous contaminants.

Are MSM Eye Drops Safe?

Currently, there is no evidence that MSM is safe or effective when used in eye drops. The FDA does not approve this ingredient for ophthalmic use.

The contamination issue further calls MSM eye drop safety into question. When improperly manufactured, these drops may harbor dangerous bacteria that damage the eyes.

The FDA regularly analyzes eye care products from distributors and retailers. Over the last few years, they have found numerous unapproved ingredients or bacterial contamination in certain brands:

• Last Stand eye drops
• UP2 eye drops
• Luminous Eye drops
• BluOxiClear eye drops

This demonstrates the importance of only using eye drops from reputable manufacturers that follow FDA guidelines. With unregulated products, you have no way of knowing what contaminants they contain or how they were produced.

Side Effects and Risks

There have not been any clinical studies on the safety of using MSM eye drops. However, it's likely they carry similar health risks as using any type of eye drops incorrectly or with contamination:

• Eye infections - Bacteria, viruses, and fungi can enter the eye from contaminated drops leading to conditions like pink eye, keratitis, or corneal ulcers.
• Eye damage - Using expired eye drops or drops that contain harmful ingredients may injure the cornea and cause vision changes or loss.
• Allergic reactions - Allergens in eye drop ingredients can trigger redness, itching, swelling, and watery eyes.
• Medication interactions - Some ingredients may interact with medications or have harmful additive side effects.

Always talk to an ophthalmologist before trying new eye drops, even if they dont require a prescription. Never use a product that has not been approved by the FDA.

FDA-Approved Options for Dry Eyes

Dry eye disease is one of the most common reasons people try alternative eye drops like MSM products. Approved medications can effectively treat dry eye instead.

The FDA has approved the following prescription eye drop ingredients for managing dry eye:

• Cyclosporine - Reduces eye inflammation
• Lifitegrast - Blocks inflammation-causing T-cell activation
• Corticosteroids - Suppresses eye inflammation
• Diquafosol - Promotes tear production

Doctors also frequently recommend artificial tear eye drops for temporary dry eye relief. Some OTC options contain lubricants like carboxymethylcellulose or glycerin to coat and hydrate the eyes. Always choose products from well-known companies like Refresh, Systane, or TheraTears.

For severe dry eye cases, doctors may recommend punctal plugs. These tiny devices fit into the tear ducts to prevent drainage of moisture from the eyes.

Talk to an ophthalmologist to determine the best FDA-approved treatments for your dry eyes. Be wary of any eye drops marketed for dry eye that havent been approved by the FDA.

Are MSM Eye Drops Right for You?

MSM eye drops may seem like an appealing natural solution for dry, irritated eyes. But due to lack of regulation and testing, these products could do more harm than good.

Currently, there's no evidence MSM eye drops can safely or effectively treat vision problems. The FDA explicitly warns against using them. Contaminated products like Dr. Berne's MSM Drops could cause severe infections and damage.

Instead of taking risks with unregulated eye drops, see an ophthalmologist. They can recommend proven FDA-approved treatments if you have dry eye or other vision issues.

Your eyesight is precious. Protect it by steering clear of potentially dangerous products like MSM eye drops. Consult a doctor to find science-backed solutions that meet your eye care needs.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.