Refresh Eye Drops Recalled Due to Bacterial Contamination

Examining the Refresh Eye Drop Recall and Bacterial Contamination

Eye drops are relied upon by many to relieve dry, irritated eyes. But microbial contaminants can pose issues. This was the case with a variety of Refresh eye drop products manufactured by Alcon that were recently recalled due to contamination concerns at the production facility.

Refresh Brands Impacted

The Refresh products impacted consisted of several of Alcon's lubricant eye drops and gel formulas sold under brand names like:

• Refresh
• Refresh RELIEVEA
• Refresh Repair
• Refresh Optive Sensitive
• Refresh PM

The full list includes over 20 different eye drops and gels spanning single use vials to multi-dose bottles sold at major retailers country-wide.

Reason for Recall

These various Refresh eye relief products were recalled over concerns about bacterial contamination. The potential for microbial infection prompted Alcon to voluntarily pull the products from shelves.

An Alcon manufacturing site in Texas showed evidence of bacteria present. Out of an abundance of caution, Alcon issued a blanket recall for Refresh vials, bottles and drops originating from that facility over a 5 month production period when contamination was possible.

Types of Bacteria

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) report indicated that microbial testing found various bacteria present. This included:

• Burkholderia cenocepacia
• Burkholderia gladioli
• Stenotrophomonas maltophilia
• Brevundimonas diminuta

These gram-negative environmental bacteria species are found widely in soil and water. But rarely cause serious issues in healthy people if introduced into the eyes.

Dangers of Bacterial Eye Infections

Using contaminated eye drops, even if bacteria levels are low, does present risks. It provides a pathway for bacteria to enter the eye and cause infection leading to complications like:

Conjunctivitis

Introduction of bacteria into the thin, sensitive membrane lining the eye can ignite significant inflammation and result in a condition known as bacterial conjunctivitis.

This causes irritation, swelling, excessive tear production and discharge that can spread from eye to eye or person to person via unwashed hands. It is highly contagious.

Keratitis

A deeper eye tissue infection called keratitis impacts the clear front surface of the eye known as the cornea. Contaminated contact lens use often causes it but bacteria in eye drops may also be a trigger.

Keratitis leads to eye pain, light sensitivity, tearing, impaired vision and cloudy eye discharge requiring prompt antibiotic treatment to prevent corneal scarring.

Endophthalmitis

The most serious type of bacterial eye infection stemming from contaminated eye drops is a condition called endophthalmitis. It occurs when bacteria penetrate deeply into the inner chambers of the eye.

Symptoms involve significant eye pain, blurry vision, redness and pus-like discharge. Intravenous and intraocular antibiotics are used to curb infection and prevent permanent blindness that can occur in advanced cases.

Refresh Recall Treatment Options

No infections tied to the recalled Refresh eye drops have been reported to date. However, the FDA still recommends consumers using affected products consult an eye doctor right away if they experience symptoms like:

• Eye irritation
• Excessive tearing or discharge from the eyes
• Sensation that something is stuck in the eye
• Pain or discomfort
• Blurred, impaired vision
• Light sensitivity
• Unusual eye redness

Should infection occur, doctors will prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointments. Oral antibiotics may also be warranted depending on severity. Most bacterial eye infections clear within 1-2 weeks using antibiotics.

Preventing Eye Infections

To help decrease risks of developing a bacterial eye infection from contaminated eye drops:

• Discontinue use of recalled Refresh products
• Thoroughly wash hands prior to administering eye drops
• Never use expired eye drops or share dropper bottles between people
• Replace mascara and eyeliner frequently
• Avoid sleeping in contact lenses

Safety Steps by Manufacturer Alcon

Upon detecting bacteria present at their Texas manufacturing site, Alcon promptly initiated a voluntarily recall of all possibly tainted Refresh eye drops and gels. They also:

• Issued safety alerts through retailers and online consumer notices
• Contacted retailers to remove recalled lots from store shelves
• Suspended production until facility is confirmed sterile
• Notified the FDA with public warnings

Consumers can check the FDA site for specifics on recalled lot numbers of Refresh products. Alternate artificial tear brands not impacted by the recall can be used in place of Refresh drops after consulting an eye doctor.

Seeking Medical Care

If symptoms possibly indicating eye infection develop after using recalled Refresh eye drops, promptly seek diagnosis and care from an ophthalmologist or optometrist. Early treatment is key to effective management.

Contact lens wearers may be most vulnerable and should take extra precautions. Discontinue contact lens use at the first signs of eye redness or irritation until any infection clears.

Left untreated, bacterial eye infections can potentially lead to blindness. So follow up closely with an eye doctor if you used any recalled Refresh eye relief drops noted in Alcon's ongoing nationwide recall announcements.

The Bottom Line

When used as directed, artificial tear drops provide soothing relief for irritated eyes. But microbial contaminants present serious risks for vulnerable eye tissues. In response to bacterial detection, Alcon immediately recalled Refresh eye drops and gels at the first indication of potential trouble. Consumers should seek proper medical care for any eye symptoms and use unexpired products to minimize infection risks going forward.

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.