In a sweeping and urgent measure to protect consumers, an extensive recall has been issued encompassing an alarming total of 29 over-the-counter eye drop products. This recall, broadened by the inclusion of three additional products, has raised significant concerns across the nation as the implicated brands – including familiar names such as CVS Health, Leader (Cardinal Health), Rugby (Cardinal Health), Rite Aid, Target Up&Up, and Velocity Pharma – are commonly found on the shelves of major retailers.
The impetus behind this extensive recall is deeply troubling: the discovery of bacterial contamination within critical areas of drug production at a manufacturing facility. This contamination poses a serious risk of eye infections to consumers, with potential consequences as severe as vision loss or even blindness. The revelation came to light following investigations by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), underscoring the vital role of regulatory oversight in ensuring consumer safety.
In response to these findings, the FDA has acted with due diligence, providing an updated list of affected products, which includes an additional Leader brand item among the previous five. This list, intended to inform and protect the public, is accessible through a direct link on the FDA’s website. Moreover, Harvard Drug Group LLC has initiated a voluntary recall for two Rugby Laboratories brand eye drops, with information and product labels available online for public scrutiny.
The FDA’s efforts to circulate this information are paramount to public health, and the agency has taken steps to facilitate the removal of these products from the shelves and digital storefronts of CVS, Rite Aid, and Target. However, products under the Leader, Rugby, and Velocity brands may still be encountered in the marketplace, prompting an urgent advisory against their purchase.
The agency has underscored the importance of immediate medical attention for anyone experiencing signs or symptoms of an eye infection linked to the use of these products. Furthermore, the FDA has established channels through the MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program for the public to report any adverse reactions or quality problems associated with these eye drops. Such measures are critical for the collection of data and the prevention of further harm to consumers.
Here is the most current list of recalled eye drop products as of November 6, 2023:
*FDA is awaiting confirmation of NDCs for the remaining products and will update this table when they are available.
Seeking Justice and Compensation in a Product Liability Lawsuit
In light of the distressing recall of 29 over-the-counter eye drop products, individuals affected by the contaminated products are facing not only health concerns but also the prospect of legal action. Victims seeking to file a lawsuit for damages endured due to these defective products can embark on a path toward compensation by harnessing the legal system’s mechanisms for redress.
A product liability lawsuit can be a powerful tool for those seeking damages. In these suits, plaintiffs must generally prove that the product in question was defective and that this defect was the proximate cause of their injury. The litigation process can be arduous and complicated, requiring the corroboration of expert testimony, an examination of the product’s design and manufacturing process, and a thorough investigation into whether the product’s risks were known before it entered the consumer market.
In filing a product liability lawsuit, plaintiffs typically need to demonstrate that the product in question harbored a defect that was directly responsible for their injury. This can encompass defects in design, manufacturing, or insufficient warnings. The litigation process demands a thorough examination of the circumstances, often including expert witness testimony to establish the nature of the defect and the causation of injury.
The damages recoverable in a product liability lawsuit can be substantial, reflecting the diverse impacts of an injury on an individual’s life. Compensatory damages are designed to “make the victim whole,” covering medical expenses, lost wages, and the cost of future care. In addition, non-economic damages may be awarded for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of life’s enjoyment. In certain cases, where the conduct of the defendant is found to be particularly egregious, punitive damages may be imposed to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct.
Your Right to Justice with Parker Waichman LLP
For victims navigating the aftermath of an injury caused by a defective product, the road to recovery can often seem insurmountable. But it’s important to remember that the law is on your side, and seeking legal recourse is not just about compensation—it’s about ensuring that the same harm does not befall others.
If you or someone you know has been the victim of a product-related injury, it’s imperative to act without hesitation because the time to file your claim is limited by state law. The national product injury law firm Parker Waichman LLP understands the gravity of your situation and is ready to help. By offering a free consultation, our attorneys ensure that your journey towards justice begins on a solid footing, without any obligation or financial strain.
Don’t let the opportunity for justice slip away. Contact Parker Waichman LLP toady at 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) and let our expertise guide you through the complexities of your product liability claim. Take the first step towards healing and accountability today.