A popular over-the-counter eye drop has been recalled across the US over concerns that the product may not be sterile, raising the risk of contamination and potential eye infections.Prestige Brands Holdings has voluntarily recalled 39,060 bottles of Clear Eyes Maximum Itchy Eye Relief, according to the FDA. The recall includes a specific lot of the product. The recall is particularly important because eye drops are applied directly to the eyes, which means contaminated products can bypass some of the body's natural protective barriers.Which Clear Eyes Eye Drops Are Recalled?Consumers who have been using this brand's eye drop must check for the following details:Product: Clear Eyes Maximum Itchy Eye ReliefBottle size: 15 mL (0.5 fl oz)Lot: 2552AExpiration date: September 30, 2027NDC: 67172-999-01UPC: 6 78112 65920 3Quantity recalled: 39,060 bottlesThe company initiated the voluntary recall on July 29, 2026, and the FDA classified it as a Class II recall on August 14. A Class II recall means exposure to the affected product could cause medically reversible health consequences, although the likelihood of serious harm is considered remote.Also read: UK Salmonella Outbreak May Be Linked to Imported Eggs: 1 Dead, 200+ Ill—How to Stay SafeWhy Is Contamination In Eye Drops A Serious Concern?Eye drops are different from other medicines as they are intended to be strictly sterile at all times. The FDA notes that ophthalmic medicines pose a heightened risk because they could bypass some of the body's natural defences. Contaminated eye drops can introduce microorganisms directly onto the eye and potentially cause infection. Depending on the type and severity of contamination, an eye infection can cause symptoms ranging from redness and irritation to pain, discharge, vision changes and, in severe cases, serious damage to the eye. This is why sterility is a major safety requirement for ophthalmic products.This particular recall is based on a potential contamination and lack of assurance of sterility. It does not mean that every bottle is contaminated or that everyone who used the product will develop an infection.The FDA has not indicated that every user of the recalled product will experience adverse effects. However, consumers who have a recalled bottle should stop using it rather than taking the risk.Also read: After FDA Crackdowns, Karnataka Launches QR Code To Report Food & Drug Safety Violations InstantlyWhat Should You Do If You Have The Recalled Eye Drops? If you have the recalled bottle of eye drops, check the lot number and expiration date on the packaging. If your bottle matches the recalled product, stop using it.Consumers should also follow the recall instructions for returning or disposing of the product and can contact a healthcare professional.The FDA also advises people to stop using eye drops and seek medical advice if they develop eye pain, discharge, changes in vision or significant discomfort.One Of Many Eye-Drop RecallsThe latest recall comes amid a broader series of eye-drop safety concerns in the US. In recent months, other eye-drop products have also been recalled over sterility concerns and potential contamination. For example, nearly 12 million cartons of certain Rohto Cooling Eye Drops were recalled in July because sterility could not be assured.The FDA says it continues to monitor ophthalmic products through sampling and testing, because contaminated eye drops have previously been linked to infections and serious eye complications.