Nearly 40,000 Bottles of Clear Eyes Eye Drops Recalled Over Sterility Concerns

A significant recall is underway in the United States, with nearly 40,000 bottles of Clear Eyes Maximum Itchy Eye Relief eye drops being removed from shelves due to potential contamination.

Prestige Brand Holdings, based in Tarrytown, New York, initiated a voluntary recall affecting 39,060 bottles. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported that the recall is due to a "lack of assurance of sterility." The agency has categorized this action as a Class II recall, indicating a moderate risk where adverse health effects might be temporary or medically reversible, and the probability of serious harm is considered remote.

The specific product involved is 15ml bottles with lot code 2552A and an expiration date of September 30, 2027. These eye drops were distributed by Medtech Products Inc., a subsidiary of Prestige Consumer Healthcare. Clear Eyes Maximum Itchy Eye Relief is marketed to alleviate redness, itching, burning, and watery eyes.

Consumers can find the affected eye drops at major retailers across the country, including Walmart, Target, Kroger, and Dollar General stores. Customers are urged to discontinue use of the recalled product and return it to the place of purchase for a refund. Those with concerns about potential health effects should consult a pharmacist or healthcare provider.

This recall follows a history of similar issues in the U.S. In 2023, the FDA recalled EzriCare Artificial Tears after they were linked to a bacterial contamination outbreak that resulted in hospitalizations and at least one death. While less common than food safety recalls, eye drop recalls highlight the critical importance of maintaining sterility in medicinal products.