ARTIFICIAL TEARS Dry Eye Relief Eye Drops Recalled in 2026 Over Sterility Concerns
More than 1.02 million bottles of Dry Eye Relief Eye Drops across multiple brands were recalled nationwide on March 3, 2026. The products were distributed by KC Pharmaceuticals and sold at retailers including Rite Aid, Meijer and H-E-B. The FDA notice cites a lack of assurance of sterility as the reason for the recall. Stop using these products immediately and contact KC Pharmaceuticals for next‑s
Product Details
1,023,096 bottles recalled nationwide. Distributed by KC Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and sold under multiple brand names (ARTIFICIAL TEARS, RITE AID EYE DROPS DRY EYE RELIEF, LEADER DRY EYE RELIEF EYE DROPS, FOSTER AND THRIVE ADVANCED RELIEF EYE DROPS, MEIJER DRY EYE RELIEF, and others). 0.5 FL OZ (15 mL) bottles. NDCs and UPCs vary by brand. The recall covers lots LT24E01, LT24E02, LT24E03, LT24F01, LT24G01, LT24M01, LT24M02 with expirations through 2026 (05/31/26 to 10/31/26). Nationwide distribution in the United States.
The Hazard
Lack of assurance of sterility in the Dry Eye Relief Eye Drops. The product is an OTC ophthalmic solution marketed as artificial tears. The absence of sterility creates a risk of eye infection or other eye injuries.
Reported Incidents
No injuries or incidents have been reported.
What to Do
1. Stop using the product. 2. Identify your bottle by checking lot numbers LT24E01, LT24E02, LT24E03, LT24F01, LT24G01, LT24M01, LT24M02. 3. Check the UPC/NDC on the packaging to see if it matches the recalled variants listed by the FDA. 4. Contact KC Pharmaceuticals, Inc. by email for guidance on next steps. 5. If you have questions about symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.
Contact Information
FDA recall page: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/enforcement/enforce_rpt-Product-Tabs.cfm?recall_number=D-0411-2026. Hours and phone contact for KC Pharmaceuticals are not listed in the recall notice.