FDA Warns of Serious Health Risks from Contaminated MSM Eye Drops
Introduction
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning against the use of two brands of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) eye drops due to bacterial and fungal contamination. The affected products are Dr. Berne's MSM Drops 5% Solution and LightEyez MSM Eye Drops – Eye Repair.
Contaminated Products
The FDA's testing of the two products found that they were contaminated with a variety of microbes, including bacteria and fungi. These microbes can cause a range of eye infections, from mild discomfort to potentially life-threatening conditions.
Serious Health Risks
The specific health risks associated with using contaminated MSM eye drops can vary depending on the type of microbes present and the severity of the infection. However, some of the potential risks include:
- Redness, irritation, and itching of the eyes
- Excessive tearing
- Pain and discomfort in the eye area
- Eye discharge
- Vision problems
- Eye infections that can spread to other parts of the body
- In some cases, even death
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Anyone who experiences any of these symptoms after using MSM eye drops should seek immediate medical attention. Early treatment is essential to prevent the infection from spreading and to reduce the risk of serious complications.
Unapproved Active Ingredient
In addition to the contamination concerns, the FDA also noted that both products contain unapproved MSM as an active ingredient. This is a violation of US law and raises questions about the safety of these products.
FDA's Response
Dr. Berne's Whole Health Products has agreed to recall the affected product, namely the MSM Drops. The recall was initiated on August 21, 2023. LightEyez Limited, the distributor of LightEyez MSM Eye Drops, has not yet responded to the FDA's concerns.
Consumer Advice
The FDA is advising consumers to:
- Stop using all MSM eye drops immediately.
- Discard any remaining MSM eye drops.
- Seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of eye infection after using MSM eye drops.
- Only use eye drops that have been approved by the FDA and that are manufactured and distributed by reputable companies.
The Dangers of Contaminated Eye Drops
The eyes are a delicate organ, and they are easily susceptible to infection. When eye drops are contaminated with bacteria or fungi, it can lead to a variety of serious eye infections. These infections can range in severity from mild to severe, and they can even lead to blindness.
Some of the most common eye infections caused by contaminated eye drops include:
- Bacterial conjunctivitis: This is a common eye infection that causes redness, swelling, and discharge from the eyes. It is usually caused by bacteria that are found naturally on the skin and in the environment.
- Fungal conjunctivitis: This is a less common eye infection that is caused by fungi. It can cause similar symptoms to bacterial conjunctivitis, but it can also lead to a more severe infection called keratitis.
- Keratitis: This is an inflammation of the cornea, which is the clear front part of the eye. It can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Keratitis can cause pain, redness, and blurred vision. In severe cases, it can lead to permanent damage to the cornea.
- Endophthalmitis: This is a serious infection that affects the inside of the eye. It is usually caused by bacteria, but it can also be caused by fungi or viruses. Endophthalmitis can lead to blindness if it is not treated promptly.
How to Avoid Contaminated Eye Drops
The best way to avoid contaminated eye drops is to only use eye drops that have been approved by the FDA. The FDA has strict standards for the safety and efficacy of eye drops, so you can be confident that these products are safe to use.
You should also avoid buying eye drops from online or street vendors. These products are often not regulated, and they may be contaminated.
If you are unsure about whether or not an eye drop is safe to use, you should talk to your doctor.
Conclusion
The FDA's warning about contaminated MSM eye drops is a serious reminder of the importance of product safety and quality. Consumers should only use eye drops that have been rigorously tested and evaluated by the FDA. By following the FDA's advice, you can help to protect your eye health and avoid the serious risks associated with using contaminated MSM eye drops.
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