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LUBRICANT EYE DROP LAWSUITS

Lubricant Eye Drops May Be Contaminated with Drug-Resistant Bacterial Infections, Causing Eye Injuries, Blindness, and Deaths. The attorneys at Parker Waichman LLP, a national product injury law firm, are investigating potential lawsuits on behalf of victims who sustained eye injuries, blindness, or tragic death resulting from the artificial eye drops made by Global Pharmacy Healthcare. […]

Lubricant Eye Drops May Be Contaminated with Drug-Resistant Bacterial Infections, Causing Eye Injuries, Blindness, and Deaths.

Lubricant eye drop lawsuits

Lubricant Eye Drops May Be Contaminated

The attorneys at Parker Waichman LLP, a national product injury law firm, are investigating potential lawsuits on behalf of victims who sustained eye injuries, blindness, or tragic death resulting from the artificial eye drops made by Global Pharmacy Healthcare. The eye drops were sold under brands including EzriCare Artificial Tears and Delsam Pharma Artificial Tears.

On February 2, 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that Global Pharma Healthcare has issued a voluntary nationwide recall of Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops, sold under the brand names EzriCare and Delsam Pharma. The recall, which extends to all lots within expiry, comes with a risk statement indicating that eye infections could result in blindness.

A possible contamination with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium resistant to most antibiotics, prompted the recall. Because eye drops are preservative-free, they lack ingredients to prevent bacterial growth. In the immune-compromised, the bacterium can cause pneumonia and several serious infections.

The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) alerted the FDA to an investigation and issued a public safety warning on January 31, 2023. The CDC also issued a health alert to doctors. According to multiple national news sources, the CDC referenced 55 infections in 12 states. Five of the infections resulted in permanent vision loss and at least one led to death.

In January, the FDA added Global Pharma to its “red list” of banned imports, due to multiple violations of FDA manufacturing regulations. According to the FDA, Global Pharma Healthcare is notifying all distributors of the product, including Aru Pharma Inc. and Delsam Pharma.

“Eye drops” is a broad term. Millions of people in the U.S. use eye drops, for conditions including dry eye, glaucoma, allergies and itchiness.

FDA Report Reveals Disturbing Conditions in Indian Eyedrop Factory

Substandard Manufacturing Practices at Indian Plant Lead to U.S. Eyedrop Recall

November 17, 2023 – A recent FDA investigation has exposed alarming conditions in an Indian manufacturing facility responsible for producing a variety of eyedrops recalled in the United States. The Mumbai-based factory, run by Kilitch Healthcare India, has been identified as having multiple sanitation and manufacturing deficiencies.

The Food and Drug Administration inspection report highlighted over a dozen issues, including workers without proper protective gear, such as masks, gloves, and gowns, and some even working barefoot in what should be sterile areas. A plant manager reportedly stated to FDA officials that these practices were standard for the facility.

Further observations by the FDA team revealed structural concerns, including cracked floors and signs of wear and tear like water stains and peeling paint on walls and ceilings. There were also indications that the factory’s staff routinely altered or omitted results from contamination tests. A microbiologist at the plant admitted that in cases where bacterial samples might indicate a contamination risk, these results were not recorded. Instead, additional cleaning was performed, and subsequent tests indicating sterility were documented.

Following these initial findings, the FDA is expected to issue a formal report and a warning letter to Kilitch Healthcare. The company has already initiated a recall of the eyedrops, which includes 27 different brands and formulations. This recall came after an FDA advisory to U.S. stores and consumers regarding the issue and subsequent blocking of imports from Kilitch.

Despite the recall and the FDA’s advisory, the agency lacks the authority to enforce mandatory product recalls and relies on manufacturers to act voluntarily. This limitation has prompted the FDA to seek additional powers from Congress to mandate recalls when necessary.

Kilitch Healthcare has stated that it has not received any reports of adverse events linked to its products, though the FDA warns that the eyedrops could potentially lead to vision loss or blindness.

Distributed in the U.S. by Velocity Pharma, these eyedrops have expiration dates ranging from November 2023 to September 2025. Notably, FDA records do not show any prior inspections of Kilitch Healthcare’s facilities.

The FDA’s responsibility for ensuring the safety of foreign products entering the U.S. has been a longstanding challenge, particularly with the growth of international pharmaceutical supply chains originating from countries like India. The agency’s ability to conduct inspections in India was notably hindered during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a significant reduction in inspection activities.

Retailers such as CVS Health have responded to the FDA’s findings by halting the sale of the affected eyedrops and offering refunds to customers. However, other companies involved, including Cardinal Health, have yet to respond publicly.

This incident follows a separate case earlier in the year where eye infections in the U.S. were linked to eyedrops produced by two different companies, EzriCare and Delsam Pharma. In this earlier case, the CDC reported over 80 infection cases, including instances of vision loss, eye removals, and fatalities. Inspections of the manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu, India, which produced these eyedrops, revealed inadequate sterility measures and other production issues.

Over the past 20 years, many other eyecare products have been recalled due to safety including ReNu with Moistureloc, and several other brands. If you or a loved one have been harmed by an eyecare product, you have limited time to file your claim for compensation.

The FDA & CDC Report Additional Injuries and One Death Caused By Recalled Eye Drops

FDA – May 15, 2023 – On May 15, 2023, the CDC, in conjunction with various state and local health authorities, identified 81 cases of VIM-GES-CRPA, a scarcely seen but highly drug-resistant P. aeruginosa strain, in 18 states (CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, IL, NC, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, PA, SD, TX, UT, WA, WI). This marks an uptick of 13 patients from the last recorded update. Within this new patient group, 6 (46%) had samples gathered before the product recall issued by the manufacturer on February 2, 2023, related to this outbreak. These instances were validated after the recall due to the testing period necessary to ascertain the outbreak strain and retrospective infection reporting. Most of the remaining seven (7) patients, whose samples were collected post-recall, either resided in long-term care facilities housing known cases or declared the usage of a recalled artificial tears brand.

Sample collection dates spanned from May 2022 through April 2023. Patients were first pinpointed from cultures derived from sputum, bronchial wash, or tracheal aspirate (14); ocular-related locations (e.g., cornea, vitreous; 21); urine (13); other nonsterile sources (3); blood (3); and ear (1); and from rectal swabs (26) gathered for surveillance. Public health-reported adverse outcomes linked to clinical (non-surveillance) cultures include vision loss in 14 patients, enucleation (eye removal surgery) in an extra four (4) patients and four (4) fatalities within a 30-day period following VIM-GES-CRPA clinical culture procurement.

The majority of patients declared the use of artificial tears. Over ten (10) separate artificial tear brands were reported by patients, with some patients employing multiple brands. EzriCare Artificial Tears, a preservative-free, over-the-counter product in multi-dose bottles, was cited as the most frequently used. This was the sole common artificial tears product found across four healthcare facility clusters. The CDC’s lab tests identified VIM-GES-CRPA presence in open EzriCare bottles from multiple batches, acquired from patients both with and without ocular infections and across two states. VIM-GES-CRPA found in opened products corresponded with the outbreak strain. The FDA’s tests on unopened EzriCare Artificial Tears bottles revealed bacterial contamination, with an additional characterization of the contaminants in progress.

Three products have been voluntarily recalled by the manufacturer, Global Pharma (Chennai, India), in connection with this outbreak: EzriCare Artificial Tears, Delsam Pharma Artificial Tears, and Delsam Pharma Artificial Ointment. No additional products have been tied to this outbreak. Both patients and healthcare providers are advised to promptly cease usage and dispose of EzriCare Artificial Tears, Delsam Pharma Artificial Tears, and Delsam Pharma Artificial Ointment.

Kentucky Resident Files Lawsuit Over Recalled Eye Drops

Complications from an eye infection led Judith Gregory to take legal action against Global Pharma Healthcare.

November 16, 2023 – In a dramatic turn of events, 81-year-old Judith Gregory from Elsmere, Kentucky, found herself amidst a harrowing medical journey, starting with discomfort in her left eye and escalating to a series of treatments and surgeries. Gregory’s story began with the simple symptoms of eye redness and pain, but it quickly deteriorated. Within a week, her vision was significantly impaired. She attributes her eye infection to the use of EzriCare Artificial Tears, a product manufactured by Global Pharma Healthcare, based in India. Claiming the product was contaminated with harmful bacteria, she has initiated a lawsuit against the company, seeking redress for the personal and financial damages she endured.

The situation gained more gravity when Global Pharma Healthcare announced a recall of EzriCare and another brand due to suspected contamination. This recall was part of a larger issue, as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued warnings against more than two dozen types of eye drops, sold by major retailers like CVS, Rite Aid, and Walmart, citing the risk of serious infections.

This scenario has highlighted a significant oversight in the regulation of over-the-counter eye drops. Unlike prescription medications, these products do not undergo the same rigorous FDA approval process before hitting the shelves. Despite general safety assurances from experts, a small fraction of these products pose serious health risks. This was underlined in a paper published in the Journal of the American Medical Association Ophthalmology, which pointed out the regulatory gaps allowing potentially dangerous products to reach consumers.

The issue is compounded by the sheer volume of these products in the market. In 2022 alone, Americans spent nearly $1.6 billion on 149 million eye care products. The self-regulated nature of this market poses a significant risk, as seen in the case of Gregory’s infection.

The complexity of the issue is further deepened by the FDA’s limited enforcement capability. While manufacturers are expected to adhere to FDA guidelines for ingredients, labeling, and safety, the agency does not proactively approve these products. This has led to situations where contaminated products, such as those from Global Pharma Healthcare, slip through the cracks and cause harm.

The recall and subsequent investigation have unearthed severe consequences, including cases of blindness, eye removal surgeries, and even deaths linked to these products. This situation has raised serious questions about the FDA’s oversight of overseas manufacturing facilities, especially following reduced inspections during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Gregory’s lawsuit is not just against Global Pharma Healthcare, but also includes retailers like Amazon and Walmart, highlighting the widespread impact of this regulatory gap. As consumers continue to navigate the risks associated with over-the-counter eye drops, experts and regulatory bodies alike are calling for more stringent measures to ensure the safety and efficacy of these widely used products.

Recalled Eye Drops Result in Another Fatality: Which Products Are Impacted?

May 15, 2023 (CDC) – A recent fatality linked to popular eye drops has prompted U.S. health authorities to issue another warning. This tragic fatality brings the number of eye drop deaths to four (4). More than ten (10) brands of artificial tears have been recalled due to contamination with antibiotic-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria. Despite the recall being announced in February, these dangerous products continue to cause harm and pose a threat to public health.

Global Pharma, an India-based company, issued a recall for all lots of its EzriCare and Delsam Pharma brands of ‘Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops’ on February 2, 2023, due to potential bacterial contamination. This recall was prompted by an investigation conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) into a series of bacterial infections across multiple states believed to be associated with these eye drops.

In addition to the recent death, fourteen (14) people became permanently blind, and four (4) others underwent eye surgery to remove their affected eyes. Health authorities strongly advise individuals who have recently used these products to seek immediate medical attention.

At the time of the recall, there were fifty-five (55) reported cases of adverse reactions to the drops, including eye infections, permanent vision loss, and one death caused by a bloodstream infection. Global Pharma also recalled one (1) batch of ‘Artificial Eye Ointment’ distributed by Delsam Pharma on February 24, 2023, due to possible microbial contamination.

Another manufacturer, Apotex, recalled six (6) lots of their own brand of glaucoma drops, known as ‘Brimonidine Tartrate Ophthalmic Solution, 0.15%,’ on March 1, 2023. These drops are prescribed to patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. The recall was initiated due to concerns that cracks in the caps of some units could compromise the sterility of the drops, leading to potential infections.

Pharmaceutical firm Pharmedica USA also issued a recall in March for two (2) lots of ‘Purely Soothing, 15% MSM Drops’ due to sterility concerns.

How concerned should you be?

As of May 15, 2023, the CDC has identified eighty-one (81) patients across eighteen (18) states who have been infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This bacteria, which naturally occurs in the environment, can spread to humans through exposure to contaminated water or soil. It can also be transmitted from person to person. Drug-resistant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa cause over 30,000 infections annually among hospitalized patients in the U.S., resulting in more than 2,500 deaths.

Health authorities strongly urge patients to immediately stop using the recalled eye drops, even if they have not experienced any adverse reactions yet. Patients who have previously used these potentially unsafe products, as well as those currently using them, should contact their doctor and inquire about safe alternatives.

What to do if you are injured by these recalled products?

If you have suffered an injury due to the use of these recalled products, it is crucial to take the following steps:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention. If you are experiencing any adverse reactions or injuries as a result of using the recalled eye drops, it is crucial to seek medical help without delay. Contact your healthcare provider or visit the nearest emergency room for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment.
2. Document Your Symptoms and Injuries. Documenting your symptoms and injuries is an essential step in the process. Make sure to keep a detailed record of your symptoms, the timeline of events, and any medical treatments or interventions you have undergone. Take photographs of visible injuries, such as eye redness, swelling, or other related complications. These records will serve as valuable evidence for future reference and potential legal purposes.
3. Report the Incident to the Appropriate Governmental Authorities. It is important to inform the manufacturer of the product, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and your local health department about the injury caused by the recalled eye drops. By reporting the incident, you contribute to raising awareness and ensuring that necessary actions are taken to prevent further harm to others.
4. Contact Our Law Firm. We represent injured clients in personal injury and product liability cases. Seeking legal representation can provide you with guidance and support. We can help you understand your legal rights, evaluate your case, and assist in pursuing a legal claim for compensation, if appropriate. A skilled attorney from Parker Waichman LLP will advocate for your legal rights and work towards achieving a fair resolution.

Remember, your health and well-being should always be the top priority. By seeking immediate medical attention, documenting your injuries, and reaching out to the FDA and legal professionals, you can take the necessary steps to address your injuries and contribute to preventing future incidents related to the recalled products.

Parker Waichman LLP helps families recover monetary compensation for harm caused by a dangerous product. For your free consultation, contact our law firm today by using our live chat or calling 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529).

Free Legal Consultation for Victims of Contaminated EzriCare or Delsam Pharma Artificial Tears Eye Drops

If eye drops harmed you or a member of your family, call 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) to speak with one of our national product liability attorneys and receive a free consultation.

WHAT IS THE CONCERN WITH EZRICARE ARTIFICIAL TEARS AND OTHER LUBRICANT EYE DROPS?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s warning letter states that some batches of EzriCare Artificial Tears eye drops may be contaminated with Pseudomonas Aeruginosa. Pseudomonas Aeruginosa is a dangerous bacterium that is also antibiotic resistant. Pseudomonas Aeruginosa bacteria can be found in water, soil, and on the hands of healthy people. However, Pseudomonas Aeruginosa infections often occur in hospital settings and in people with weakened immune systems.

According to the CDC’s warning letter, several customers who used contaminated EzriCare Artificial Tears eye drops sustained severe injuries such as permanent vision loss, urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, and death. The person who perished after using the eye drops passed away after the bacterium entered their bloodstream. The CDC believes that people who had underlying eye conditions, such as glaucoma or cataracts, and used the EzriCare Artificial Tears eye drops were more sensitive to the bacterium. Pseudomonas Aeruginosa eye infection symptoms include swelling, blurry vision, light sensitivity, eye pain, swelling, discharge, redness, and a feeling of a foreign object in the eye.

The distributor’s website states that consumers should immediately discontinue the use of EzriCare Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops (Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium, 10mg in 1mL) in ½ fl. oz (15mL) containers. Customers are also advised to visit the company’s product website for more information about this issue.

FDA Reports Eye Drop Manufacturer Failed to Ensure Sterility in Production Facility

April 5, 2023 — U.S. health inspectors have found that the eyedrop manufacturer, recently connected to fatalities and injuries, did not have adequate measures in place to guarantee sterility at its factory in India.

In a preliminary inspection report disclosed to the public on Monday, The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) identified dozens of issues with Global Pharma Healthcare’s eyedrop manufacturing and testing processes after conducting an inspection from late February to early March.

FDA personnel stated that the company’s procedures were insufficient for guaranteeing product sterility. Inspectors specifically identified a flawed manufacturing process used between December 2020 and April 2022 for products later exported to the United States.

The facility, located in Chennai City in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India produced eyedrops linked to 68 bacterial infections in the United States, including three fatalities, eight instances of vision loss, and four eye removal surgeries due to infection. In February, two U.S. distributors, EzriCare and Delsam Pharma, recalled their eye drop products after being linked to these severe health risks.

The outbreak is particularly concerning because the bacteria associated with the adulterated eyedrops are resistant to conventional antibiotics.

FDA inspectors arrived at the facility over two weeks after the initial eyedrop recall announcement on February 3, 2023. According to agency records, this inspection was presumably FDA’s first visit to the facility.

The report contains FDA’s initial findings, likely to be followed by a formal report and a warning letter to the company. An FDA spokesperson indicated that the inspection suggests the company’s products “may be in violation of FDA’s requirements.”

In an emailed statement, FDA senior press officer, Jeremy Khan, urged consumers to cease using these potentially harmful products.

FDA is tasked with ensuring the safety of foreign products imported into the United States. However, regulators have long struggled to keep up with increasingly complex international pharmaceutical supply chains that often originate in India and China.

FDA inspectors identified concerning sanitary conditions at the Global Pharma facility, observing that its floors, walls, and ceilings could not be easily sterilized. During the visit, an FDA inspector also noted that “none of the equipment on the filling machine was wrapped or covered.” The inspector also found that the company lacked thorough procedures for confirming bottle seals and relied solely on manual visual inspections to detect leaks.

Global Pharma has remained mostly silent regarding the recent recalls, directing inquiries to the U.S. companies that marketed the products.

FDA, in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has been investigating the bacterial infections discovered in the United States and is testing unopened eyedrop products. CDC officials have already identified the bacterial strain in opened EzriCare drop bottles collected from infected patients.

CDC officials are concerned about the bacteria spreading and anticipate additional cases being reported in the coming weeks and months. The agency has recommended that healthcare facilities treating patients adhere to strict infection-control guidelines to prevent rapid transmission of the germ.

Tainted Eyedrops Deaths Reach Three — Four People Underwent Eyeball Removal Surgery

March 24, 2023 – According to The New York Post, the number of people in the US affected by contaminated eyedrops has risen to at least 68, resulting in three fatalities, eight cases of blindness, and four individuals needing to have an eyeball surgically removed.

EzriCare and Delsam Phama’s over-the-counter eyedrops, initially recalled in February, are now associated with cases in 16 states across the US, according to an updated alert from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Tuesday. The data, based on a count from March 14, 2023, may have since increased.

The affected states include New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania, says the CDC. At least 37 cases were “connected to four healthcare facility clusters,” the agency reported, without specifying their locations.

The CDC revealed that “three individuals have died, and there have been eight instances of vision loss and four instances of enucleation (surgical removal of eyeball).” The agency did not provide further details on the most severe cases.

An updated death toll was provided by the CDC in a new warning on Tuesday. The count has risen from one death and five vision loss cases reported last month.

The eyedrops, produced in India, are responsible for a bacteria strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa that has never been reported in the United States prior to this outbreak, the CDC stated.

The agency also warned that this strain is extremely dangerous and is “extensively drug-resistant.”

The CDC observed that although 10 different brands of artificial tears may be affected, some patients used multiple brands.” However, EzriCare Artificial Tears was the brand most frequently mentioned.

This was the only shared artificial tears product identified across the four healthcare facility clusters, as stated in the warning.

The CDC advises patients and healthcare providers to immediately stop using EzriCare Artificial Tears. According to the CDC, patients who used Delsam Pharma’s or EzriCare’s artificial tears and have symptoms of an eye infection should seek emergency medical attention immediately. Those people who are not experiencing any symptoms of infection don’t not need to seek immediate medical care, but should look for symptoms such as redness, blurred vision, the sensation of something in the eye, and “green, yellow, or clear discharge from their eye(s).”

Although the CDC did not disclose specific cases, one lawyer for Florida grandmother Clara Oliva stated that she has filed a lawsuit against EzriCare Artificial Tears’ manufacturers for leaving her “severely injured and now legally blind.”

JAMA Ophthalmology also featured two anonymous cases on Wednesday.

One involved a 72-year-old woman who became blind in her left eye following her use of EzriCare artificial tears for dry eyes, according to her doctor, Dr. Ahmed Omar with the University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center.

The woman “noticed blurry vision in her left eye for a few days,” followed by “yellow discharge on her pillow,” Omar said, as reported by CNN.

“That’s when she began to observe changes in her eye’s appearance.”

Upon visiting the ER, doctors found a large ulcer on her left cornea, almost covering her entire eye, which ultimately became blind despite treatment and surgery.

The second case involved a 72-year-old man who experienced severe pain and decreased vision after using EzriCare artificial tears for dry eyes, as noted by CNN.

The man sought treatment at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami, but his condition worsened as antibiotics proved ineffective.

The eye institute’s Dr. Guillermo Amescua stated that the man now has corneal blindness with 20/400 vision and a corneal scar, but a corneal transplant might improve his prognosis.

Update: On February 23, 2023, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), issued an expanded warning last Tuesday concerning certain artificial tear products connected to bacterial contamination resulting in numerous cases of blindness and death. FDA’s advisory was updated to include products made by Global Pharma Healthcare Private Limited, including EzriCare Artificial Tears, Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears, and Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Eye Ointment. These eye lubricant products are meant to be used while sterile, and reportedly should not be used by consumers or healthcare professionals, according to FDA.

EzriCare initially recalled its artificial tear products at the request of FDA due to potentially life-threatening manufacturing violations. FDA has now identified additional issues concerning drug formulation, packaging, and insufficient microbial testing.

CDC had also issued a public warning against the use of EzriCare and Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears in the early part of February 2023, and investigated a potential connection between these products and 58 cases of a rare strain of drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacterial infections across 13 states. Among these cases were five reported cases of vision loss and one death.

As of February 21, 2023, CDC identified a total of 58 patients in 13 states who have contracted Pseudomonas aeruginosawith Verona integron-mediated metallo-β-lactamase and Guiana extended-spectrum-β-lactamase (VIM-GES-CRPA) . Of these patients, 35 were linked to four healthcare facility clusters, and one person has died, with five reports of vision loss. Most of the ill patients who reported using the affected artificial tears were using EzriCare brand artificial tears. Laboratory testing by CDC identified the presence of VIM-GES-CRPA in opened EzriCare bottles from multiple lots, including those collected from patients with and without eye infections from two states. CDC is currently testing unopened bottles of EzriCare Artificial Tears to determine if contamination occurred during manufacturing.

Patients and healthcare providers are warned to immediately stop using EzriCare and Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears products and await further guidance from either CDC or FDA. Patients who suffered adverse effects using the eye products are asked to report those adverse reactions to FDA’s MedWatch program.

HAS THE “PRESERVATIVE-FREE” EZRICARE ARTIFICIAL TEARS PRODUCT BEEN RECALLED?

On February 2, 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a voluntary nationwide recall by Global Pharma Healthcare of all of its Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops, including EzriCare and Delsam Pharma. The recall extends to all unexpired lots.

WHAT CAUSED THE EYE DROPS TO BECOME CONTAMINATED WITH BACTERIA?

Lubricant eye drop lawsuits

Lubricant eye drops

Dr. Jill Weatherhead, a professor at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, stated that Pseudomonas Aeruginosa bacteria are highly resistant to antibiotics, and standard medical treatment of these infections will not treat the dangerous infection. Moreover, EzriCare Artificial Tears and the other eye drops are preservative-free. This means that these eye drops do not contain chemicals that prevent microbiological growth. So if the preservative-free eye drops become contaminated due to the manufacturing process, the bacterium can grow inside the container. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention discovered the Pseudomonas Aeruginosa bacteria in some bottles of the EzriCare Artificial Tears eye drops, and the agency is currently testing bottles to find out if the bacteria in the bottles match the strain found in the ill people.

HAS THERE BEEN AN ARTIFICIAL TEARS LAWSUIT?

This issue has just been made public and it is believed that there will be numerous lawsuits seeking monetary compensation harmed caused by this product. Some of the product liability cases will likely allege that these eye drops were contaminated and caused loss of vision or death. If you or a loved one have been harmed by EzriCare Artificial Tears or other eye drops, it is important that you or your loved one does not delay in seeking information and legal advice. The time to file a claim is limited by state law. In some states, that deadline is as short as one year.

WHAT IS PARKER WAICHMAN’S EXPERIENCE WITH SUING FOR DAMAGES FROM THE USE OF EZRICARE EYE DROPS?

Parker Waichman LLP has obtained more than two billion dollars in settlements and jury awards concerning injury and death cases on behalf of victims who have been harmed by dangerous consumer products. Parker Waichman has been representing injury victims and families who loved ones due to dangerous products for more than 40 years, and we have successfully litigated thousands of major cases against pharmaceutical manufacturers in both state and federal courts. Our trial attorneys, legal support staff, and our resources are designed for cases as such these: This is what we do; This is who we are. If you or a loved one believe that you have a case, contact Parker Waichman LLP for a free, no obligation case review.

WHY SHOULD SOMEONE CHOOSE PARKER WAICHMAN FOR THEIR EYE DROPS LAWSUIT?

Parker Waichman is a large, national plaintiff’s law firm with over 150 attorneys and staff. We have a large staff because we litigate our own cases. For example, our firm represents people in litigation all across the U.S.. Our trial attorneys do not sit back and wait for the defendants to arrange a settlement. Our attorneys try to litigate our clients’ cases individually, and we represent our clients the best that we can to obtain a maximum recovery.

Our attorneys have successfully won trial against some of the largest corporations in the United States, if not the world. Our firm is very well-equipped and extremely well-financed to handle litigation such as this EzriCare Artificial Tears eye drop litigation. Parker Waichman is one of the largest product liability law firms in the United States, and we take on pharmaceutical and medical device companies almost every single day.

WHAT IS PARKER WAICHMAN’S RELEVANT EXPERIENCE WITH DEFECTIVE DRUG LAWSUITS?

Parker Waichman LLP has represented thousands of clients in injury and wrongful death lawsuits against major pharmaceutical and medical device corporations over the past four decades. Our law firm has litigated some of the most complex product liability cases such as ReNu, Zyprexa, Ortho Evra birth control patch, Medtronic’s Infuse spinal medical device, TDF drugs, talcum powder, hernia mesh, Roundup, and numerous medical device and implant cases. This is what our firm does.

Please view our Case Results page for additional information about the verdicts and settlements we have obtained for our clients.

BUT WHY SHOULD YOU FILE AN EZRICARE EYE DROP INJURY LAWSUIT?

People have a right to know the products they are using are safe and effective. Although, many companies try to manufacture safe and effective products, some products end up posing a danger to consumers. In some cases, those products are recalled. However, recalls take months and often times a brand will deny that their product is causing harm to prevent financial losses. In these circumstances, it is necessary to file a product liability lawsuit to protect other people from harm.

A few reasons why it is important to file a lawsuit if you or a loved one suffered harm using these artificial eye drops include:

  1. You or your loved one could receive financial compensation to pay all medical expenses connected to the defective product.
  2. You or your family member can receive compensation for lost earnings when you or your loved one cannot work due to the injury or illness.
  3. You or your loved one can be compensated for emotional distress, pain and suffering, and medical costs that you have endured as a result of your injury or illness.
  4. If you lost a family member as a result using this product, your family could qualify to receive the damages listed above and other costs, such as funeral expenses.

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER FILING YOUR LAWSUIT

Lawsuits filed against large corporation are complex cases that take an extended period of time to litigate. In some cases, it can take months or even years to settle or to argue a lawsuit in court. Most, if not all, product injury cases come down to a client’s medical records, which will provide information linking the eye injury or death to the alleged bacteria contaminated eye drops. Investigating the claim, reviewing medical records, retaining expert witnesses, and compiling other evidence takes time. Should you or your loved one retain Parker Waichman LLP to represent you, you and your loved one can rest assured that our experienced trial attorneys are working hard to obtain the best possible results in your or your loved one’s case.

IS THERE A DEADLINE FOR FILING A EZRICARE EYE DROP LAWSUIT?

Yes. All personal injury and wrongful death claims have specific deadlines set by state laws. If you or a loved one suffered an injury or the loss of a loved one, you have a limited time to file your claim. In some cases, that deadline could be as short as one year, in other cases it could be longer. These deadlines are known as “statutes of limitations” and these deadline vary from state to state. It is essential that you contact our law firm as soon as possible to protect your legal right to compensation.

CAN I FILE A LAWSUIT ON BEHALF OF A LOVED ONE WHO DIED FROM EZRICARE EYE DROPS?

When a victim of contaminated EzriCare eye drops caused a person to die, the surviving family members may have a legal right to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the companies responsible. Wrongful death lawsuits can compensate family members who have lost a spouse, parent, child, or sibling. The surviving family could recover compensation for the loss of their loved one’s love and companionship, earnings, and loss of support. As we understand, monetary compensation cannot replace your loved one, most clients seek legal justice and relief from the financial stress of medical bills and funeral expenses. At Parker Waichman, our experienced product injury lawyers have the experience and resources that are necessary for to pursue a wrongful death case on behalf of your family member.

Choose a Product Liability Attorney With a Record of Success

At Parker Waichman LLP, our product injury attorneys have substancial experience litigating personal injury and defective product cases. You and your family can be assured that we will work hard to obtain the best possible results in your claim. Eye injuries, loss of vision, or the loss of a loved one deserves legal justice. To begin the process of receiving, call us today at 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) to discuss your claim.

EXPERIENCE THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE

At Parker Waichman LLP, our lawyers are very passionate about helping our clients recover financially after an injury or loss of a loved one. Our legal representation have helped our law firm earn a stellar reputation. Over the years, our firm has recovered over $2 billion for our clients. A few of our firm has received include:

  • A listing in Best Lawyers, which is based on extensive peer review.
  • A top rating of “AV Preeminent” from Martindale-Hubbell.
  • A near perfect AVVO rating of 9.8 out of 10.
  • Law dragon’s highest rating of “5 Dragons.”

If you or a loved one have been harmed by this eye drop product, when you choose Parker Waichman LLP to represent you, you will be listened to and we will conduct a thorough investigation into circumstances of your case. Our attorneys will fight for your legal rights, and will make every effort to obtain the best possible results in your case.

GET LEGAL HELP FROM OUR EZRICARE EYE DROP LAWYERS TODAY

If you or a member of your family have become blind or lost a loved one due to contaminated eye drops, you may be qualified to pursue a lawsuit to recover compensation. For your free legal consultation with one of our product injury lawyers, call 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) or use our online chat feature. Our attorneys will help you understand your rights and we will work hard for the compensation you or your loved one deserves.

 

Lubricant eye drops
What Our Clients Say About Us
We have worked with thousands of clients and we appreciate them and their positive reviews. Here are just a few recent client reviews...
5 Star Reviews 150
PW is top notch. I felt perfectly comfortable with the staff and the in person visit with the paralegal was excellent she explained everything to me in a knowledgeable fashion. I would highly recommend PW.
Vikki Mclaurin
10 months ago
5 Star Reviews 150
Had a great experience with Ashley and Gina. Would recommend them in a heart beat!
Maria Rivera
4 years ago
5 Star Reviews 150
Nicole Copertino is the BEST. She is very knowledgeable and helpful. She give a clear understanding of your claim and takes the time to give a caring extra moment if u need it. Which means a lot.
NINA DEAN
2 weeks ago

Why Choose Us to Help You?

We Take Care of Everything
Your situation is stressful enough: Let us take on the deadlines, paperwork, investigation, and litigation. We'll handle every detail so you don't have to worry.
No Recovery = No Legal Fees
We work on a contingency-fee basis, meaning that we only get paid from a portion of your settlement or jury award. If you don't get compensation, you owe us nothing.
Decades of Experience
Your situation is stressful enough: Let us take on the deadlines, paperwork, investigation, and litigation. We'll handle every detail so you don't have to worry.
Respected by Our Peers
Judges, insurance adjusters, and fellow attorneys all speak highly of our skills, and we've earned numerous accolades, including a flawless rating from AVVO.
We Have Many Locations To Serve You
We have the experience and the skilled litigators to win your case. Contact us and speak with a real attorney who can help you.
Long Island – Nassau
Parker Waichman LLP
6 Harbor Park Drive
Port Washington, NY 11050
Long Island – Suffolk
Parker Waichman LLP
201 Old Country Road – Suite 145
Melville, NY 11747
New York
Parker Waichman LLP
59 Maiden Lane, 6th Floor
New York, NY 10038
Queens
Parker Waichman LLP
118-35 Queens Boulevard, Suite 400
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Brooklyn
Parker Waichman LLP
300 Cadman Plaza West
One Pierrepont Plaza, 12th Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11201
New Jersey
Parker Waichman LLP
80 Main Street, Suite 265
West Orange, NJ 07052
Florida
Parker Waichman LLP
27299 Riverview Center Boulevard
Suite 108
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Nationwide Service
Parker Waichman LLP
59 Maiden Lane, 6th Floor
New York, NY 10038