If you've been affected by the recent eye drop recall in Connecticut, you're not alone. Defective eye drops have led to serious health risks, and many people have suffered due to unsafe products that should never have made it to store shelves. At The Flood Law Firm, we understand how upsetting and frustrating this situation can be. You trusted a product to help improve your health, only to find out that it caused more harm than good. We’re here to help you get the compensation you deserve for the pain, medical bills, and other challenges you've faced due to defective eye drops.
Contact a Connecticut eye drop recall lawyer at The Flood Law Firm for a free case evaluation today. Let us help you explore your legal options and take the necessary steps toward holding the responsible parties accountable.
Understanding the Eye Drop Recall
The eye drop recall in Connecticut is tied to several dangerous and defective products that were contaminated or made with unsafe ingredients. The affected eye drops were sold over the counter or prescribed to treat various eye conditions, including dry eyes, infections, and irritation. These products, which were trusted by thousands of consumers, have been linked to serious health issues. The recall has affected many residents in Connecticut who have relied on these products for treatment.
Commercial Airline Incidents
Commercial airline accidents, though rare, can lead to significant injuries or fatalities when they do occur. These incidents might include crashes during takeoff or landing, turbulence-related injuries, or in-flight malfunctions. When an airline is involved, multiple parties could share responsibility, including the airline itself, the manufacturer of the plane, or the airport where the incident occurred.
Products Affected by the Recall
Many people in Connecticut use private planes for personal travel, business, or recreation. Unfortunately, private plane accidents are more frequent than commercial airline crashes due to factors like less stringent regulations and pilot training. Private plane crashes often lead to severe injuries or fatalities. Investigating these cases requires a detailed look at the pilot's actions, maintenance records, and possible mechanical failures.
Several brands of eye drops have been recalled due to contamination risks, particularly those that contain bacteria or other harmful substances. Some of the most well-known products include those from major manufacturers like Pharmedica, EzriCare, Apotex Corp., and Delsam Pharma. They include:
- Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops
- Brimonidine Tartrate Ophthalmic Solution, 0.15%
- Purely Soothing 15% MSM Drops
These manufacturers, particularly Pharmedica and EzriCare, have been at the center of the eye drop recall crisis. They distributed products that were found to contain harmful bacteria, such as pseudomonas aeruginosa. This drug-resistant bacteria can spread easily among people. The bacteria causes serious infections, and contamination was linked to several cases of severe illness and death. These products were sold in stores and online, potentially putting countless people at risk.
Additionally, Cardinal Health issued a voluntary recall of six Leader brand products, and Harvard Drug Group LLC issued a voluntary recall for “two lots of Rugby Laboratories brand eye drops.” Velocity Pharma is another brand shown to have contaminated products. Retailers who sold contaminated eye drops include:
- CVS Health
- Rite Aid
- Target (Up & Up brand)
- Walmart (Equate brand)
Timeline of Recalls and FDA Warnings
The first major recall occurred in early 2023 when the FDA identified concerns regarding contaminated eye drops. As cases of infection and adverse reactions mounted, the recall expanded to include more products. The FDA issued several warnings and alerts to consumers, advising them to stop using specific brands of eye drops and seek immediate medical attention if they experienced symptoms like redness, pain, or vision changes.
In May 2023, CNN reported that four people had died and 81 patients across the nation were being treated for pseudomonas aeruginosa infections.
Reasons for the Recall
The primary reason for the recall was contamination, which posed a significant health risk to anyone who used these eye drops. Bacteria, including pseudomonas aeruginosa, were found in the products, which could lead to infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. This contamination jeopardized the safety of consumers who relied on these products to treat eye conditions.
Health Risks and Complications
The health risks associated with these recalled eye drops are serious and, in some cases, life-threatening. If you or someone you know used the recalled eye drops, you could face a range of dangerous complications. Symptoms can include:
- Eye discharge that’s yellow, green, or clear
- Eye pain or discomfort
- Feeling like something is in the eye
- Eye redness
- Swelling or redness of the eyelid
- Blurry vision
- Increased sensitivity to light
The harm caused by these defective products goes beyond inconvenience. It can lead to long-term health problems, including infections and permanent vision loss. Bacterial contamination in the drops can lead to eye infections that may require extensive medical treatment or even hospitalization.
Infections can spread quickly, leading to additional complications in other areas of the body, including the bloodstream. Also, people can transfer the bacteria to others through contact. These infections can be painful, requiring prolonged treatment.
In more severe cases, prolonged exposure to the contaminated drops could result in systemic illness, impacting other areas of the body beyond the eyes. Several deaths have already occurred due to complications arising from these bacterial infections.
Vision Loss Risks
Infections caused by contaminated eye drops can also lead to vision loss. If untreated or not addressed quickly, these infections can damage the cornea, retina, and other parts of the eye, potentially causing permanent vision impairment. People who were using the defective eye drops for treatment of conditions like dry eye syndrome may have worsened symptoms or new vision problems that require medical intervention.
Long-Term Health Implications
If you've been affected by the recall, your health could suffer long-term consequences. Chronic eye issues, persistent infections, or vision-related disabilities may follow in some cases. The emotional and psychological toll of dealing with vision loss or ongoing medical treatments can also affect your quality of life. Seeking compensation can help cover medical costs and compensate for the long-term impact these injuries have had on your daily life.
Your Legal Rights
As a consumer, you have the right to expect that the products you purchase are safe for use. When manufacturers fail to ensure the safety of their products and consumers are harmed as a result, they must be held accountable. Connecticut law allows you to file a product liability claim if you’ve been affected by defective products like contaminated eye drops. A Connecticut eye drop recall lawyer can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process.
Connecticut Product Liability Laws
Connecticut’s product liability laws hold manufacturers, distributors, and sellers responsible for injuries caused by defective products. If the eye drops you used were contaminated or made with harmful ingredients, the manufacturers can be liable for your injuries. By filing a claim, you can pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Time Limits for Filing Claims (Statute of Limitations)
Connecticut’s statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims is generally two years from the date you sustained or discovered the injury. If recalled eye drops have harmed you, don’t wait—contact a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected.
Types of Compensation Available
After suffering injuries from a recalled product, you may receive compensation that includes:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and income
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term care costs
- Vision-related disability
A personal injury lawyer can help determine what compensation you may be eligible for based on your specific case.
Who Can File a Claim
Anyone who has used the recalled eye drops and suffered harm as a result may be able to file a claim. If you’ve experienced infections, vision problems, or other related complications, you have the right to seek compensation. Family members of those who have passed away due to complications from the defective eye drops may also be able to file a wrongful death claim.
How We Can Help
At The Flood Law Firm, we’re here to help you get the justice you deserve. We understand how difficult it is to deal with the aftermath of a defective product, and we’re committed to guiding you through every step of the process.
Free Case Evaluation
Our team offers free case evaluations to help you understand your legal options. We’ll review the details of your case, explain how the law applies to your situation, and advise you on the best course of action. There’s no obligation, and you’ll get the answers you need to make an informed decision about your case.
Investigation and Documentation Services
We know how important it is to gather the right evidence. Our team will thoroughly investigate your case, document your injuries, and collect any relevant medical records. This information is crucial in building a strong claim against the responsible parties.
Medical Expert Consultation
In cases involving health-related injuries, it’s often helpful to consult with medical experts who can speak to the extent of your injuries and the necessary treatment. We work with trusted professionals who can provide expert testimony to strengthen your case.
Negotiation with Manufacturers and Insurance Companies
Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who will work tirelessly to secure a fair settlement. If the manufacturer or insurance company is unwilling to offer a fair resolution, we won’t hesitate to take your case to court.
Court Representation If Needed
If a settlement isn’t possible, we’ll represent you in court to fight for the compensation you deserve. Our team has the experience to handle complex cases and the resources to take on large corporations and insurance companies.
Our Experience and Track Record
The Flood Law Firm has a strong track record of success in personal injury and product liability cases. We’ve handled numerous cases involving defective products, helping our clients secure substantial settlements for their injuries. Our team has the experience and resources to fight for you, whether through negotiation or litigation.
Signs You May Have a Case for Recalled Eye Drops
You may have a case if:
- You used one of the recalled eye drops
- You’ve experienced symptoms such as eye infections, vision problems, or eye irritation
- You have received a medical diagnosis related to the use of these products
- You have medical records that document your injuries
You must act quickly. Documenting your symptoms, medical treatment, and any relevant details will strengthen your case.
What to Do If You're Affected
If you believe defective eye drops have harmed you, you need to take several important steps:
- Seek medical treatment immediately if you experience symptoms
- Preserve the product and any related packaging as evidence
- Obtain medical records that document your injuries
- Report the issue to the FDA and other relevant agencies
- Contact a lawyer who can help you understand your legal rights
FAQs About Connecticut Eye Drop Recalls
Here are answers to common questions about the recall and the legal process:
What should I do if I’ve used the recalled eye drops?
Contact a healthcare provider immediately if you’ve experienced symptoms or complications after using the product. Preserve any packaging for evidence and contact an attorney to discuss your legal options.
How much will legal representation cost?
At The Flood Law Firm, we offer free case evaluations, and our team works on a contingency basis. You pay nothing upfront and no legal fees along the way. We only accept attorney fees if we secure compensation for you, and our fees are a pre-determined percentage of your award. You don’t have to pay anything out of pocket to retain the quality representation you need.
Let Our Product Liability Attorneys Help
At The Flood Law Firm, we understand the hardship and frustration caused by defective products. Our compassionate, dedicated team is here to support you through every step of the process. We’re committed to helping you pursue the compensation you deserve for the harm caused by the recalled eye drops.
Contact us today at (877) 987-9LAW for a free consultation. Let us help you take the next step toward recovery and justice.
Connecticut Office
190 Washington Street
Middletown, CT 06457
P: (860) 346-2695