Dry Eye Relief Drops Recalled Over Sterility Concerns

This alert was compiled from official government recall data published by the FDA using automated analysis. All facts are sourced directly from official records. Last verified April 18, 2026.

Stock photo for illustration — not the actual recalled product. Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash

A Critical Recall for Eye Drop Users Across the United States

This isn't just another recall notice; this impacts a very sensitive product. Specifically, it concerns common over-the-counter eye drops many Americans use daily for dry eye relief. If you're one of them, pay close attention, as there is a product recall in the United States.

• K.C. Pharmaceuticals, Inc. has initiated a voluntary recall of its Dry Eye Relief Eye Drops due to a lack of assurance of sterility.
• The recall impacts a wide range of brands distributed nationwide, including GERI CARE, TopCare health, Rite Aid, LEADER, Discount Drug Mart, H-E-B, Foster & Thrive, meijer, DG health Sterile, Harris Teeter, exchange select, and Good Neighbor Pharmacy.

Nobody wants to find out their eye drops might be contaminated. This announcement affects over a million units sold across the U.S., so it's essential to check your medicine cabinet immediately.

Why Sterility Matters in This Product Recall

Sterility is non-negotiable when it comes to eye drops.

• Non-sterile eye drops could introduce harmful bacteria or other microorganisms into your eyes.
• This contamination can lead to infections, ranging from mild irritation to severe, vision-threatening conditions.
• The FDA considers this to be a Class II recall, meaning that using the affected product could cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences.

While it's not the most severe recall class, the potential for eye infections is significant. It is also good to note this isn't the first time K.C. Pharmaceuticals has faced recall situations, which raises concerns about quality control processes.

Do Your Eye Drops Fall Under This Recall? Here's How to Check

Finding out if your eye drops are affected is straightforward, but requires a close look at the label.

• First, locate the brand name on your bottle of Dry Eye Relief Eye Drops and compare it to the list provided above. Brands include GERI CARE, TopCare health, Rite Aid, and many others, sold across the U.S. in pharmacies like Rite Aid, grocery stores like H-E-B in Texas, and retailers like Meijer across the Midwest.
• Next, check for the lot number and expiration date, usually printed on the side or bottom of the bottle.
• Match those details against the specific codes listed in the official recall notice, and the list below.

Here are the specific lot numbers and expiration dates to watch out for:

• GERI CARE (NDC 57896-181-05): LT24E01, LT24E02, LT24E03 (Exp.: 05/31/26); LT24F01 (Exp.: 06/30/26); LT24G01 (Exp.: 07/31/26); LT24M01, LT24M02 (Exp.: 10/31/26)
• TopCare health (UPC 0 36800 36100 3): LT24E03 (Exp.: 05/31/26); LT24F01 (Exp.:06/30/26); LT24G01 (Exp.:07/31/26); LT24M02 (Exp.: 10/31/26)
• Rite Aid (NDC 11822-1067-2): LT24F01 (Exp.: 06/30/26)
• LEADER (NDC 70000-0502-1): LT24F01 (Exp.: 06/30/26); LT24G01 (Exp.: 07/31/26)
• Discount drug mart (UPC 0 93351 01156 6): LT24F01 (Exp.: 06/30/26)
• H-E-B (UPC 0 41220 43741 2): LT24F01 (Exp.: 06/30/26); LT24G01 (Exp.: 07/31/26)
• Foster & Thrive (NDC 70677-1158-1): LT24F01 (Exp.: 06/30/26); LT24G01 (Exp.: 07/31/26)
• meijer (NDC 41250-718-01): LT24F01 (Exp.: 06/30/26)
• DG health Sterile (UPC 0 95072 02656 0): LT24F01 (Exp.: 06/30/26); LT24G01 (Exp.: 07/31/26)
• Harris Teeter (UPC 0 72036 71303 2): LT24F01 (Exp.: 06/30/26)
• exchange select (UPC 6 14299 05620 6): LT24G01 (Exp.: 07/31/26)
• Good Neighbor Pharmacy (NDC 46122-605-05): LT24F01 (Exp.: 06/30/26)

If your eye drops match any of these criteria, stop using them immediately.

What You Should Do Right Now

If you've determined that you have affected eye drops, act promptly. Here's a step-by-step guide.

1. Stop using the Dry Eye Relief Eye Drops immediately and safely discard them in the trash to prevent accidental use.
2. Consult with your healthcare provider, especially if you've experienced any irritation, redness, pain, or other unusual symptoms after using the drops.
3. Report any adverse reactions or quality problems you experienced while using these eye drops to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program.
4. If you are a U.S. consumer, you can contact K.C. Pharmaceuticals, Inc. directly for more information on the recall and potential reimbursement options, though the recall notice does not explicitly offer a refund or replacement.

By following these steps, you can protect your eye health and contribute to the agency's ongoing monitoring of product safety in the U.S.

Understanding the Scope and Impact for American Shoppers

This recall impacts a substantial number of people who rely on these products for everyday comfort. The agency confirmed that over 1 million bottles are affected.

• The Dry Eye Relief Eye Drops were distributed nationwide, meaning people in every state could have purchased them.
• These eye drops are typically found in drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers, making them easily accessible to a wide range of American shoppers.

The recall serves as a reminder to stay informed about product safety and to check for recall notices regularly. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued approximately 30 eye drop related recalls since 2010, showing the importance consumers be vigilant about their health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does "lack of assurance of sterility" really mean?

It means the manufacturer couldn't guarantee that the eye drops were completely free from harmful bacteria or other microorganisms during production.

Q: What are the symptoms of an eye infection from contaminated eye drops?

Symptoms can include redness, itching, pain, blurred vision, discharge, and increased sensitivity to light; if you experience any of these, seek medical attention promptly.

Q: Where can I find the lot number and expiration date on the eye drop bottle?

Typically, you'll find the lot number and expiration date printed on the side or bottom of the bottle, or sometimes on the product's outer packaging.

Q: Can I still use the eye drops if I haven't experienced any problems?

No, even if you haven't noticed any issues, you should stop using the eye drops immediately if the lot number matches the recall list, as potential contamination could still be present.

Q: Will K.C. Pharmaceuticals provide a refund or replacement for the recalled eye drops?

The official recall notice doesn't explicitly mention refunds or replacements, but it's recommended to contact K.C. Pharmaceuticals directly to inquire about potential compensation and the process.

This recall was announced by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For the official notice and complete details, visit www.fda.gov.