FDA Recalls Eye Drops Linked to Blindness and Serious Infections

Recently, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) issued a recall for eye drops manufactured by EzriCare & Delsma Pharma. The recall was issued due to the increased risk of contracting a drug-resistant bacteria. The recall states, “Using contaminated artificial tears increases risk of eye infections that could result in blindness or death. Patients who have signs or symptoms of an eye infection should talk to their health care provider or seek medical care immediately.”  You can read the full statement from the FDA here.

What Happened With the EzriCare and Delsam Pharma Eye Drops and Why Were They Recalled?

In early 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warned consumers to stop using certain artificial tear products sold under the EzriCare and Delsam Pharma brands.

The products were manufactured by Global Pharma Healthcare and recalled after investigators linked them to a nationwide outbreak of infections caused by a rare and extensively drug-resistant strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Federal investigators later identified significant manufacturing and quality control concerns at the facility where the products were produced. The FDA subsequently issued warning letters and documented multiple current good manufacturing practice (CGMP) violations related to the facility.

Which Products Were Added to the FDA Recall List?

The recalled products included:

• EzriCare Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops
• Delsam Pharma Artificial Tears
• Delsam Pharma Artificial Eye Ointment

Consumers who still possess any of these products should not use them.

How Serious Were the Injuries?

According to CDC findings, the outbreak affected at least 81 patients across 18 states.

Reported injuries included:

• Four deaths
• Fourteen cases of vision loss
• Four patients who required surgical removal of an eye
• Numerous eye, bloodstream, respiratory, and other infections

Health officials described the outbreak strain as particularly concerning because it was resistant to many antibiotics commonly used to treat bacterial infections.

While many product recalls are precautionary, this outbreak resulted in documented cases of permanent and life-altering injuries.

Symptoms Associated with Potential Injury

Federal health agencies have identified specific symptoms that were commonly reported by individuals affected by the bacterial outbreak linked to these recalled products. If you used these eye drops and experienced any of the following, it may be relevant to potential legal claims:

• Eye pain or discomfort
• Redness of the eye or eyelid
• Yellow, green, or clear discharge
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Blurred vision
• Swelling around the eye
• A sensation that something is in the eye
• Sudden changes in vision

Documenting these symptoms and the timing of your medical care is important, as this information is often critical in evaluating product liability claims. Please note that this information is for educational purposes regarding the FDA eye drop recall and does not constitute medical advice.

Important 2026 Recall Update: K.C. Pharmaceuticals

In April 2026, the FDA issued warnings regarding over 3.1 million bottles of eye drops (including brands such as Leader, Rugby, Equate, TopCare, Good Sense, and Quality Choice) due to potential non-sterile conditions and bacterial or fungal contamination risks. If you use these products, check your packaging against the official FDA enforcement report to verify if your specific lot code is affected.

Are Lawsuits Still Being Filed?

Yes.

Consumers who allegedly suffered serious injuries after using the recalled products have filed product liability lawsuits against companies involved in the manufacture, distribution, and sale of the eye drops.

These cases generally allege that contaminated products entered the marketplace and caused preventable injuries to consumers.

Every case is different, and whether a legal claim exists depends on the specific facts, medical records, and evidence involved.

What Should You Do If You Believe You Were Harmed?

If you or a loved one used recalled EzriCare or Delsam Pharma eye products and later developed an infection or vision-related injury, consider taking the following steps:

1. Seek medical evaluation and treatment.
2. Preserve any remaining product, packaging, receipts, or photographs.
3. Obtain copies of your medical records and treatment history.
4. Document any vision changes, medical expenses, or missed work.
5. Speak with an attorney to discuss your situation and potential legal rights.
6. Check your product packaging for the lot code and compare it against the official FDA enforcement report to see if it is part of a recall.

Evidence That May Help Support a Claim

Evidence commonly used in product liability cases may include:

• Product packaging or bottles
• Purchase receipts
• Pharmacy records
• Medical records
• Ophthalmology records
• Hospital records
• Photographs of injuries or complications

The sooner evidence is preserved, the easier it may be to investigate a potential claim.

Contact Clark Perdue

If you or a loved one experienced vision loss, a serious eye infection, hospitalization, or another injury after using recalled EzriCare or Delsam Pharma eye products, Clark Perdue can review your situation and discuss your potential legal options.

Contact our office for a free and confidential case evaluation.

Please note: Our firm is currently reviewing potential cases on a limited basis. We will only consider a case if there is a significant and identifiable fungal infection directly related to the product that resulted in permanent vision loss.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique, and laws are subject to change. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please consult with a qualified attorney regarding your specific legal situation.

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