Target Eye Drops Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Target is pulling 3 eye drop products from its shelves and website after federal investigators found unsanitary conditions which could cause the lubricants to become contaminated with a bacterium that could lead to severe eye infections and even permanent vision loss.
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C.L. Mike Schmidt Published by C.L. Mike Schmidt
Free Confidential Target Eye Drops Lawsuit Review
If you or a loved one suffered permanent vision loss, eye infection, urinary tract infections, or other complications after using Target Eye Drops, you may be entitled to compensation by filing a Target Eye Drops lawsuit and we can help.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, 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, LLP today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

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Target Eye Drops Lawsuit Overview

Target is facing lawsuits after federal investigators discovered unsanitary conditions that could lead to contamination with harmful bacteria in several eye drop products. These lawsuits primarily allege that the contaminated eye drops caused serious infections, vision loss, and in some cases, death. The FDA has identified at least 26 brands of eye drops and gels sold at major retailers that pose a serious health risk. Currently, at least 4 deaths and 14 cases of vision loss have been linked to contaminated eye drops.

Latest Target Eye Drops Lawsuit Updates

February 1, 2024

– The FDA has issued a formal warning about Target’s Up & Up eye drops, citing unsanitary production conditions and the risk of serious infections or vision loss [1].

October 31, 2023 – ABC News reports that Target and other retailers have removed potentially harmful eye drops following an urgent FDA advisory about infection risks.

January 2023 – The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warned consumers to stop using EzriCare Artificial Tears and Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears after the products were linked to a drug-resistant strain of the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

FDA Warns of Infection Risk with OTC Eye Drops: Eyewitness News Video

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to the FDA, Target, CVS, and Rite Aid are removing potentially contaminated eye drops from their stores and websites. Products branded as Leader, Rugby, and Velocity may still be available in stores and online and should not be purchased or used.

The CDC has reported alarming statistics about contaminated eye drops:

  • 4 deaths attributed to bacterial infections caused by contaminated EzriCare and Delsam Pharma eye drop products in an earlier outbreak
  • 14 cases of vision loss linked to the use of recalled EzriCare and Delsam Pharma eye drops from an earlier outbreak
  • 26 brands identified by the FDA as of October 27, 2023, as posing health risks, with additional brands added in November 2023

As of October 27, 2023, the FDA has not received any reports of infection specifically associated with the Target eye drop products named in the October 27 alert, but it is encouraging patients and healthcare professionals to report any cases to the agency.

Target Eye Drops Injuries & Side Effects

Contaminated Target eye drops can cause a range of serious health complications, from minor irritation to permanent vision damage.

  • Eye Infections: Bacterial contamination can lead to severe infections that may spread to surrounding tissues
  • Vision Loss: Potential permanent loss of vision due to severe infection
  • Eye Irritation: Discomfort or a burning sensation in the eye
  • Redness and Discharge: Noticeable redness in the eye or eyelid with unusual discharge

Do You Qualify for a Target Eye Drops Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Target Eye Drops lawsuit if:

  • You used Target eye drop products, particularly the Up&Up brand, between 2022-2023
  • You experienced serious side effects including eye infections, vision impairment, or other complications
  • The injuries required medical treatment or hospitalization
  • You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to Target eye drops

Evidence Required for a Target Eye Drops Lawsuit

To strengthen your case, you will need to provide:

  • Medical records documenting your eye injury or infection
  • Proof of purchase of Target eye drops (receipts, credit card statements)
  • Product packaging or the product itself
  • Documentation of all expenses related to your injury

Damages You Can Recover

Compensation in Target eye drops lawsuits typically ranges from $50,000 to $500,000, depending on the severity of your injuries. You may be eligible to recover:

  • Medical expenses for treatment, surgeries, and ongoing care
  • Lost wages due to inability to work
  • Pain and suffering compensation
  • Long-term disability costs
  • Punitive damages against the manufacturers

Target Eye Drops Recall Information

The following Target eye drop products were identified in the FDA safety alert:

Standard Eye Drops

  • Up&Up Dry Eye Relief (30ml): Active Ingredients: Polyethylene Glycol 400 0.4% & Propylene Glycol 0.3%

Extreme Relief Formulas

  • Up&Up Extreme Relief (15ml): Active Ingredients: Polyethylene Glycol 400 0.4% & Propylene Glycol 0.3%
  • Up&Up Extreme Relief (30ml Twin Pack): Active Ingredients: Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium Eye Drops 0.5% w/v

If you purchased any potentially contaminated eye drops, you should properly discard them by taking them to a drug take-back site or by checking whether a product was included on the FDA’s ‘flush list’ of drugs that can be safely discarded at home.

Statute of Limitations for Target Eye Drops Lawsuits

Time limits for filing a Target eye drops lawsuit vary by state, but typically range from 1-3 years from the date you discovered your injury was related to the product. Failing to file within your state’s statute of limitations will likely result in your case being dismissed. For the most accurate information about time limits in your specific situation, consult with an attorney as soon as possible.

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

FAQs

1. What are the health risks associated with Target eye drops?

Health risks can include eye infections, vision loss, and other serious eye conditions. Consult a healthcare professional if you experience any adverse effects.

2. Are there any recalls for Target eye drops?

Yes, certain batches of Target eye drops have been recalled due to contamination or other safety concerns. Check the FDA website for the latest recall information.

3. Who can file a Target eye drops lawsuit?

Individuals who have suffered serious eye injuries or infections after using Target eye drops may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Consult a lawyer to discuss your specific situation.

4. What compensation can I receive from a Target eye drops lawsuit?

Compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages. Each case is unique and compensation varies.

5. What are the potential compensation ranges for a lawsuit?

Potential compensation ranges for a lawsuit related to tainted eye drops typically ranges between $50,000 and $500,000. The amount depends on factors such as the severity of injuries, medical expenses incurred, and the impact on the victim’s quality of life.

6. What documentation do I need to file a claim?

Documentation you need to file a claim includes documents such as medical records detailing your diagnosis and treatment, receipts for medical expenses, and evidence of lost wages (e.g., pay stubs or tax returns). Additionally, include any correspondence related to the recall or contamination to strengthen your case.

7. How do I file a claim for damages?

Filing a claim for damages involves several steps. First, consult with an attorney to understand your rights and options. Next, gather all necessary documentation to support your claim. Once you have the evidence, your attorney will help you prepare and submit the claim to the responsible parties. After filing, the process moves to settlement negotiations, which involve discussions with the liable parties or their insurers.

8. What is the expected timeline for a lawsuit?

The expected timeline for a lawsuit varies but generally follows a predictable process. An initial consultation with an attorney occurs within days of contact. Gathering evidence and documentation takes about 1–3 months, followed by the filing of the claim, which typically must occur within 1 year of diagnosis or injury. Finally, settlement negotiations can take several months to over a year, depending on the case’s complexity.

9. What specific medical conditions are linked to tainted eye drops?

Specific medical conditions that are linked to tainted eye drops include bacterial conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, severe allergic reactions, and other serious infections that can lead to vision impairment or loss. These conditions underscore the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms arise.

Time is limited to pursue legal action for injuries caused by contaminated Target eye drops. Most states only allow 1-2 years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit, and delays could permanently forfeit your right to compensation.

Our firm offers:

  • Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
  • No upfront costs or attorney fees
  • Payment only if we win your case

Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek justice and compensation for your injuries. Contact our experienced attorneys today to discuss your legal options.

Get a Free Target Eye Drops Lawsuit Evaluation with Our Lawyers

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

If you or a loved one suffers from permanent vision loss or other complications after using Target Eye Drops, you should contact our law firm immediately for a free case evaluation. You may be entitled to financial compensation by filing a suit and we can help.

Reference:

[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 

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