CVS Eye Drops Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

If you or a loved one suffered permanent vision loss, eye infection, urinary tract infections, or other complications after using CVS Eye Drops, you may be entitled to pursue compensation. At Schmidt & Clark, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to contaminated eye drops. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Schmidt & Clark today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

CVS Eye Drops Lawsuit Overview

Could the CVS eye drops you trust be linked to severe health risks? Recent legal actions suggest that certain over-the-counter eye drops may be causing severe infections and vision problems by bypassing the body’s natural defenses. The FDA has raised significant concerns about potential bacterial contamination in several CVS eye drop products, which can lead to serious health risks including vision loss or blindness.

If you or a loved one suffered permanent vision loss, eye infection, urinary tract infections, or other complications after using CVS Eye Drops, you should contact our lawyers immediately.

Latest CVS Eye Drops Lawsuit Updates

October 27, 2023 – The FDA issued an alert regarding several CVS eye drop products due to potential bacterial contamination that could lead to serious eye infections. The agency recommended that CVS remove specific eye drop products from shelves after bacterial contamination was found during inspections [1].

September 2023 – A class action lawsuit was filed against CVS and manufacturers for distributing contaminated eye drop products. The lawsuit specifically targeted CVS Health Pink Eye Relief Drops, which the FDA said are labeled in a manner that requires regulatory approval [2].

August 2023 – The FDA warned against using LightEyez MSM Eye Drops due to potential fungal and bacterial contamination. Cardinal Health also initiated a recall for various ophthalmic products due to contamination risks [3].

February 2023 – The CDC reported an outbreak of Pseudomonas aeruginosa linked to contaminated eye drops, resulting in 81 infections and 4 deaths. The bacteria strain was found in 81 people, 4 of whom had died from infections, according to the CDC [4].

FDA Reports and Statistics

On October 27, 2023, the FDA issued an alert regarding several CVS eye drop products due to potential bacterial contamination that could lead to serious eye infections. The following is an overview of the affected products:

The FDA’s Oct. 2023 alert is the most recent in a series of warnings against using potentially contaminated eye drop products. In August, the FDA urged consumers to stop using LightEyez MSM Eye Drops Eye Repair product, and Dr. Berne’s MSM Drops 5% Solution over potential bacterial and fungal contamination.

In February, the CDC reported that the bacteria strain was found in 81 people, 4 of whom had died from infections. Subsequently, it was determined that India-based Global Pharma Healthcare’s microbial testing of its eye product was inadequate, that the manufacturer failed to use adequate, tamper-resistant packaging, and that the drugs were distributed without proper preservatives.

CVS Eye Drops Injuries & Side Effects

Eye infections resulting from contaminated eye drops can manifest in various symptoms, ranging from mild discomfort to severe complications.

• Blurry Vision: Difficulty seeing clearly; may improve with blinking or resting the eyes.
• Discharge (yellow/green): Thick discharge that may crust over the eyelids; indicative of infection.
• Pain or Discomfort: Persistent sensation of pain or discomfort in the eye.
• Redness of the Eyelid or Eye: Noticeable redness or swelling around the eye.
• Increased Sensitivity to Light: Discomfort in bright light.
• Severe Ocular Pain: Intense pain that worsens with eye movement.
• Vision Loss: Sudden changes or loss of vision.

Do You Qualify for a CVS Eye Drops Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a CVS Eye Drops lawsuit if:

• You used any of the recalled CVS eye drop products identified by the FDA
• You experienced serious side effects including eye infections, vision problems, or other complications
• The injuries required medical treatment or hospitalization
• You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to CVS eye drops

Evidence Required for a CVS Eye Drops Lawsuit

To build a strong case, you will need to provide:

• Proof of purchase of the recalled CVS eye drops
• Medical records documenting your eye infections or vision problems
• Documentation of treatment received
• Medical opinion linking your condition to the contaminated eye drops

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of contaminated CVS eye drops may be eligible to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses for treatment of eye infections and vision problems
• Lost wages due to inability to work during recovery
• Pain and suffering caused by eye infections and treatment
• Permanent vision impairment or loss
• Punitive damages against manufacturers in cases of gross negligence

CVS Eye Drops Recall Information

In October 2023, the FDA recommended that CVS remove specific eye drop products from shelves due to bacterial contamination found during inspections. The recall affects multiple CVS eye drop products including:

• CVS Health Lubricant Eye Drops (15 ml single and twin packs)
• CVS Health Lubricant Gel Drops (15 ml single and twin packs)
• CVS Health Multi-Action Relief Drops (15 ml)
• Various other lubricating eye drop products sold under the CVS brand

This follows previous recalls in early 2023 when the FDA and CDC identified contaminated eye drops linked to serious infections, including products manufactured by Global Pharma Healthcare.

Statute of Limitations for CVS Eye Drops Lawsuits

The timeframe for filing a CVS Eye Drops lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 1-3 years from the date of injury or when you discovered the connection between your injury and the contaminated eye drops. It’s critical to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate deadline for your state.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What types of CVS eye drops are involved in the lawsuit?

The types of CVS eye drops involved in the lawsuit include artificial tears and lubricating drops suspected of bacterial contamination. Products like the gentle lubricant gel eye drops, known for their soothing relief and mild formulation, are also under scrutiny.

2. What are the health risks associated with using the recalled eye drops?

Health risks associated with using the recalled eye drops include severe eye infections, vision impairment, and, in extreme cases, potential blindness due to bacterial contamination. These recalled products were marketed for extreme dry eye relief, offering enhanced hydration with ingredients like polyethylene glycol and propylene glycol.

3. How did the contamination of CVS eye drops occur?

The contamination of CVS eye drops occurred due to lapses in manufacturing practices, leading to bacterial presence in the eye drops. Various over-the-counter eye drops, including those sold at major retailers like Rite Aid, have been recalled by the FDA due to similar unsanitary manufacturing conditions, posing potential eye infection risks.

4. What should I do if I have used recalled CVS eye drops?

If you have used recalled CVS eye drops, stop using them immediately and consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you experience any symptoms of eye infection. Keep the product packaging for documentation and contact a qualified attorney to discuss your legal options.

5. How long will a CVS eye drops lawsuit take?

The timeline for CVS eye drops lawsuits varies depending on case complexity, evidence, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. Some cases may settle within 6-12 months, while others might take 2-3 years or longer if they proceed to trial.

6. Can I join a class action lawsuit for CVS eye drops?

Yes, class action lawsuits have been filed against CVS relating to contaminated eye drops. An experienced attorney can advise whether joining a class action or pursuing an individual claim is more appropriate for your specific situation.

7. What compensation might I receive from a CVS eye drops lawsuit?

Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potentially punitive damages. The amount varies based on injury severity, medical costs, impact on quality of life, and other factors specific to your case.

FDA Warns to Stop Using 26 Types of OTC Eye Drops: ABC News Video

Class Action Alleges CVS Pink Eye Drops Misbranded, Require FDA Approval

In September 2023, CVS was hit with a class action lawsuit after the company received an FDA warning letter about its over-the-counter CVS Health Pink Eye Relief Drops, which the agency said are labeled in a manner that requires regulatory approval.

Specifically, the lawsuit contends that certain efficacy claims on the packaging of CVS’ Pink Eye Drops lead consumers to believe that the product is “intended for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, and/or intended to affect the structure or any function of the body,” according to the lawsuit.

As a result, the FDA warned CVS that its Pink Eye Drops are essentially an unapproved new drug not generally recognized as safe and effective for its promoted uses or evaluated by qualified experts.

Furthermore, the complaint challenges the label claims that the Pink Eye Drops have “a homeopathic formula that stimulates the body’s ability to relieve redness, burning, watery discharge, and sensations of grittiness.”

According to the class action, the eye drops are misbranded because they are unable to “relieve the identified symptoms.” The FDA also noted that these products could lead to partial vision loss or blindness due to potential eye infections.

Related Articles:

• Elmiron Vision Loss Lawsuit
• Opti-Free Replenish Litigation
• Purely Soothing Eye Drops

See all related product liability lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for injuries caused by contaminated CVS eye drops. Most states allow only 1-3 years from the date of injury to file a claim, and this window may be closing soon for many affected individuals.

The Product Liability Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP, a national law firm, is an experienced team of trial lawyers focusing on representing plaintiffs in CVS Eye Drops Lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and are currently accepting new legal challenges in all 50 states.

Our legal team offers:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees for our services
• Payment only if we win your case – no recovery, no fee

References

1. 1. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-warns-consumers-not-purchase-or-use-certain-eye-drops-several-major-brands-due-risk-eye#eyedrops
   2. https://www.classaction.org/news/class-action-alleges-cvs-pink-eye-drops-are-misbranded-require-fda-approval
   3. https://www.infectioncontroltoday.com/view/fda-announces-warnings-2-more-eye-drops-products
   4. https://www.cdc.gov/han/2023/han00485.html