Frost Health LawAlabama Attorney • Pharmacist • Healthcare Executive

Drug safety • Counterfeit medicines • Pharmacy operations

FDA Counterfeit Eye Drop Alert Calls for Stock Checks and Patient Counseling

FDA’s October 16 alert identifies counterfeit over-the-counter eye drops found in Florida and Georgia, with possible distribution elsewhere. Testing found bacterial contamination in two products, although the agency reports no associated adverse events. The warning supports immediate patient counseling and review of suspicious retail stock. FDA provides packaging comparisons and advises retailers to contact the company named on the label. A separate September recall concerns a different issue.

By Toby C. “Chad” Frost • October 22, 2026
1 min read

What changed

FDA reports that its investigation and product testing remain ongoing. Its index dates the alert October 16, 2026. Florida and Georgia are confirmed locations; Louisiana, Mississippi and North Carolina are possible distribution areas.12

Consumers should stop using the identified products. Clinicians should ask patients with eye infections about every ophthalmic preparation they use. Retailers should contact the labeled company about suspected stock. The September 11 K.C. Pharmaceuticals recall is separate.1

Operational implications

Chad’s analysis: Use the agency’s comparison images to guide questions and stock review. Record the supplier and product details before escalating a concern. Avoid treating a legitimate brand name as proof that every package is affected, and keep counseling focused on the specific warning.

Source notes

  1. U.S. Food & Drug Admin., Counterfeit Versions of Eye Drops Found in Several States, Information for Consumers, Health Care Professionals & Retailers (Oct. 16, 2026).
  2. U.S. Food & Drug Admin., Counterfeit Medicine, Reports of Counterfeit Drugs (last visited Oct. 22, 2026).