A contact lens solution has been recalled from the market over concerns about serious eye infections.
US-based Advanced Medical Optics (AMO), which has offices in Dublin, today announced a voluntary and immediate recall of its its Complete MoisturePLUS contact lens solution.
It said the recall was prompted by concerns over eye infections from acanthamoeba, a naturally occurring water-borne organism that can contribute to serious corneal infections.
A statement issued for the company's said: "There is no evidence to suggest that today's recall is related to a product contamination issue, and this does not impact any of AMO's other contact lens care products, including our hydrogen peroxide disinfecting solutions."
AMO said the US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) made data available to AMO showing that it had interviewed 46 patients who had developed acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) infections since January 2005.
A total of 39 of these patients were soft contact lens wearers, 21 of whom reported using Complete MoisturePLUS products.
"The CDC estimates a risk of at least seven times greater for those who used Complete MoisturePLUS solution versus those who did not. This recall is being conducted on a voluntary basis, in cooperation with the respective regulators," the statement said.
Early in the infection, the symptoms of AK can be very similar to the symptoms of other more common eye infections but AK may eventually cause severe pain and possible vision loss with some people requiring a corneal transplant, if untreated.
Further information is available from freephone number 1800 931 663.
The recall only affects Complete MoisturePLUS contact lens solution.