EzriCare Artificial Tears: A Cautionary Tale
EzriCare Artificial Tears, over-the-counter eye drops marketed as a solution for dry eyes, have recently been linked to serious infections that may cause vision damage. A study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) discovered the presence of the bacteria carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA) in the lubricant eye drops.
If you or a loved one have developed an eye infection or experienced vision loss after using EzriCare Artificial Tears, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit and seek compensation for your injuries.
Discontinuing Use of EzriCare
In January 2023, the CDC issued a recommendation to stop using EzriCare Artificial Tears due to the discovery of the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the eye drops. This specific strain of bacteria is resistant to carbapenem, a common antibiotic used to treat complicated infections.
The CDC’s study identified 55 patients with CRPA across 12 states: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Nevada, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wisconsin. At least 38 of these cases were linked to four health care facilities. Research is ongoing, but the CDC is urging doctors and patients to discontinue use of EzriCare’s eye drops until further notice.
The Risks of Carbapenem-Resistant Pseudomonas Aeruginosa
Carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a type of bacteria that is resistant to antibiotics and can cause infections throughout the body, including in the blood, lungs, and eyes. This type of bacteria can be found in the environment, such as in water and dirt, and has the potential to cause serious infections in humans.
Eye infections related to CRPA can result in pain, vision loss, or other infections. The bacteria can also evolve and become resistant to antibiotics, making treatment difficult. If you believe you have been infected by CRPA, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
The Symptoms of CRPA
The use of eye drops that contain CRPA can lead to serious health problems, including eye infections. Symptoms of CRPA eye infections may include conjunctivitis (pink eye), endophthalmitis (inflammation of the intraocular fluids), keratitis (inflammation of the cornea), pain or vision loss, other infections, or in severe cases, death.
If you or a loved one have experienced any of these health issues after using EzriCare Artificial Tears, you may be eligible to file an EzriCare lawsuit against the manufacturer.