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K.C. Pharmaceuticals Recalls Over 3.1 Million Bottles of Eye Drops Due to Sterility Testing Issues
K.C. Pharmaceuticals, a company based in California, has recalled more than 3.1 million bottles of lubricating eye drops after failing to properly test for sterility. The products, sold under various brand names at major U.S. retailers, were distributed nationwide. No infections linked to the recalled items have been reported as of early April 2026.
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C. 1 million bottles of lubricating eye drops on March 3, 2026. The recall stems from the company's failure to conduct adequate testing to verify the sterility of the products. These eye drops are available under multiple brand names at retailers across the United States.
The affected products include eight types: Dry Eye Relief Eye Drops, Artificial Tears Sterile Lubricant Eye Drops, Sterile Eye Drops Original Formula, Sterile Eye Drops Redness Lubricant, Eye Drops Advanced Relief, Ultra Lubricating Eye Drops, Sterile Eye Drops AC, and Sterile Eye Drops Soothing Tears.
They are marketed by brands such as Top Care, Best Choice, Good Sense, Rugby, Leader, Good Neighbor Pharmacy, Quality Choice, Valu Merchandisers, Geri Care, Walgreens, CVS, and Kroger. Expiration dates for the recalled bottles range from April 30, 2026, to October 31, 2026.
These products were sold at stores including Walgreens, CVS, Rite Aid, Kroger, Harris Teeter, Dollar General, Circle K, and Publix. Consumers who purchased eye drops since April 2025 should check if their product matches the recalled names. Detailed information on lot numbers and expiration dates is available on the FDA website.
identify if a product is part of the recall, consumers can refer to the FDA's table listing product names, lot numbers, and expiration dates.
For instance, Sterile Eye Drops AC with lot number AC24E01 and an expiration date of May 31, 2026, is included. Products with matching names but different lot numbers or expiration dates are not affected and can continue to be used. If a recalled product is identified, users should discontinue use immediately and return it to the retailer for a refund.
As of early April 2026, the FDA has received no reports of infections associated with these eye drops. However, potential symptoms of eye infections include redness, stuck eyelids, unusual discharge, vision changes, swelling, pain, itchiness, or irritation. Individuals experiencing such symptoms after using the products should seek medical attention and, if possible, report to the FDA.
