Consumers who keep over‑the‑counter eye drops in their medicine cabinets should check any bottle of Clear Eyes Maximum Itchy Eye Relief they own. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has upgraded a voluntary recall to a Class II recall, meaning the product could cause temporary, treatable eye irritation if used.
Recall details
Prestige Brand Holdings, the manufacturer of Clear Eyes Maximum Itchy Eye Relief, announced a voluntary recall of 39,060 bottles on July 29, 2026. The FDA updated the status on August 14, classifying it as a Class II recall. The agency’s enforcement report cites a “lack of assurance of sterility” as the reason, indicating the eye drops may be contaminated with bacteria or fungi, though no specific health hazard has been confirmed.
Product identification
The recalled product is sold in 15 mL (0.5 fl oz) dropper bottles with an expiration date of September 30, 2027. Consumers should look for the following markings:
- Brand: CLEAR EYES Maximum Itchy Eye Relief
- Lot code: 2552A
- NDC: 67172‑999‑01
- UPC: 6 78112 65920 3
- Recall number: D‑0766‑2026
Distribution was nationwide through Medtech Products, Inc., a division of Prestige Brand Holdings based in Tarrytown, New York. Retailers that carried the product include Amazon, CVS, Kroger, Walgreens, Target, Menards, Dollar General, and other national chains.
What consumers should do
If you have a bottle that matches the description above, stop using it immediately. Contact the retailer where you purchased the drops to request a refund or replacement. If you have already used the product and notice eye redness, itching, discharge, or any other unusual symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
The FDA encourages anyone who experiences an adverse reaction to report it through the MedWatch program, which collects safety information on medical products. You can also discuss the recall with your pharmacist, who can help verify whether a bottle in your home is part of the recall.
Why the recall matters
Eye drops are a common, low‑cost remedy for allergic or irritant‑induced eye discomfort. A recall of this scale underscores the importance of sterility in ophthalmic products, which are applied directly to a sensitive mucous membrane. While the FDA does not expect permanent damage from this particular batch, temporary irritation can be uncomfortable and may lead to unnecessary doctor visits.
Consumers are reminded to keep an eye on product recalls, especially for items that come into direct contact with the body. The FDA’s recall database and the MedWatch reporting system are valuable resources for staying informed about product safety.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
