EzriCare eye drops: CDC advises against use as it investigates dozens of infections and one death in 11 states

CNN
—

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is urging healthcare providers and consumers to stop using EzriCare artificial tears as they investigate at least 50 infections in 11 states that have resulted in cases permanent vision loss, hospitalization and one death.

Most people with these infections reported using artificial tears, and EzriCare was the most common brand, says the agency. These eye drops are preservative-free, which means they contain no ingredients to inhibit bacterial growth.

Testing of opened EzriCare bottles identified Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria resistant to carbapenem antibiotics as well as ceftazidime and cefepime antibiotics. Testing of unopened bottles is ongoing, the CDC says.

“The CDC recommends that clinicians and patients immediately discontinue use of EzriCare artificial tears until epidemiological investigation and laboratory testing are complete,” the agency said.

According to New Jersey-based EzriCare in a report as of January 24 that it has not received any consumer complaints or adverse event reports.

“We have not been asked to issue a recall. EzriCare does not manufacture the lubricating eye drops,” the statement read.

“Nevertheless, and with great caution, EzriCare recommends that during this evolving situation, you discontinue use of any servings of EzriCare Lubricating Eye Drops for Artificial Tears that you may have until we can find out more details. on any potential security issues.”

Pseudomonas bacteria are common in the environment, such as in soil and water. Pseudomonas aeruginosa typically spreads in health care settings, according to the CDC, and is increasingly difficult to treat due to antibiotic resistance. It caused more than 32,000 infections in hospitalized patients and around 2,700 deaths in the United States in 2017.