Tanya Dutt

Phenols In Your Shampoo Could Be Disrupting Your Heart's Rhythm, Study Finds- Ways To Reduce Exposure

Phenols In Your Shampoo Could Be Disrupting Your Heart's Rhythm

Recent research indicates that exposure to phenols, common chemicals found in everyday products, may affect the heart's electrical activity, potentially leading to <span>heart rhythm</span> abnormalities. The study, led by Hong-Sheng Wang, a professor of pharmacology, physiology, and neurobiology at the University of Cincinnati, was published in the journal Environmental Health. It is the first of its kind to examine the effects of phenol exposure on human cardiac electrical activity.

The research team analyzed data from the Fernald Community Cohort, which includes health information from nearly 10,000 individuals who lived near the U.S. Department of Energy's uranium processing site at Fernald, Ohio, between 1990 and 2008. 

While the cohort originally focused on the effects of uranium exposure, Wang's team limited their analysis to individuals with exposure levels comparable to the general population, allowing for a more accurate assessment of phenol's impact.

Participants provided urine samples to measure phenol levels, and their heart activity was assessed via electrocardiograms (EKGs). The study found that high levels of phenol exposure were linked to changes in heart rhythm, particularly in women. Specifically, exposure to three types of phenols—BPA, BPF, and BPA+F—was associated with a longer PR interval, meaning a delay in electrical signals between the upper and lower chambers of the heart. 

This effect was more pronounced in women with higher body mass indexes (BMIs). In men, higher exposure to the phenol triclocarban (TCC) was linked to a longer QT interval, suggesting a delay in the heart's electrical recharging process, which could potentially lead to rhythm disorders.

While the changes in heart activity observed in the study were moderate, Wang noted that they were particularly evident in certain subpopulations, such as women with higher BMIs. The findings suggest that phenols may not be the only environmental chemicals impacting <span>heart health</span>, and further studies are needed to examine other emerging chemicals that could pose similar risks.

Given the potential risks of phenol exposure, it’s crucial to adopt strategies that protect your heart health and reduce your contact with these chemicals in daily life.

1. Focus on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid processed foods, which often contain preservatives, a source of phenols.

2. Physical activity strengthens your heart and improves circulation. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.

3. Smoking damages the heart and blood vessels, significantly increasing the risk of heart disease.

4. Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart health with regular medical visits.

<h2>How to Reduce Phenol Exposure for Overall Health?</h2>

Phenols, including BPA (found in plastics), parabens (common in personal care products like shampoos), and food preservatives, are found in many everyday products. Reducing your exposure to these chemicals can benefit your heart and overall well-being.

- <strong>Switch to BPA-Free Products: </strong>Opt for BPA-free plastics or use glass and stainless steel containers for food storage.

- <strong>Choose Paraben-Free Personal Care Products: </strong>Many shampoos, lotions, and cosmetics contain parabens as preservatives. Look for products labeled as "paraben-free" to reduce exposure.

- <strong>Eat Fresh, Whole Foods:</strong> Processed foods often contain preservatives with phenols. Cooking fresh meals at home is a simple way to limit your intake of these chemicals.

- <strong>Avoid Canned Foods: </strong>Many canned goods contain BPA in their linings. When possible, choose fresh or frozen alternatives.

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heart health

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congenital heart disease

cardiovascular health

phenol chemical in food preservation

what are parabens

bpa free shampoo

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Recent research indicates that exposure to phenols, common chemicals found in everyday products, may affect the heart's electrical activity, potentially leading to heart rhythm abnormalities. The study, led by Hong-Sheng Wang, a professor of pharmacology, physiology, and neurobiology at the University of Cincinnati, was published in the journal Environmental Health. It is the first of its kind to examine the effects of phenol exposure on human cardiac electrical activity.The research team analyzed data from the Fernald Community Cohort, which includes health information from nearly 10,000 individuals who lived near the U.S. Department of Energy's uranium processing site at Fernald, Ohio, between 1990 and 2008. While the cohort originally focused on the effects of uranium exposure, Wang's team limited their analysis to individuals with exposure levels comparable to the general population, allowing for a more accurate assessment of phenol's impact.Participants provided urine samples to measure phenol levels, and their heart activity was assessed via electrocardiograms (EKGs). The study found that high levels of phenol exposure were linked to changes in heart rhythm, particularly in women. Specifically, exposure to three types of phenols—BPA, BPF, and BPA+F—was associated with a longer PR interval, meaning a delay in electrical signals between the upper and lower chambers of the heart. This effect was more pronounced in women with higher body mass indexes (BMIs). In men, higher exposure to the phenol triclocarban (TCC) was linked to a longer QT interval, suggesting a delay in the heart's electrical recharging process, which could potentially lead to rhythm disorders.While the changes in heart activity observed in the study were moderate, Wang noted that they were particularly evident in certain subpopulations, such as women with higher BMIs. The findings suggest that phenols may not be the only environmental chemicals impacting heart health, and further studies are needed to examine other emerging chemicals that could pose similar risks.Tips to Keep Your Heart HealthyGiven the potential risks of phenol exposure, it’s crucial to adopt strategies that protect your heart health and reduce your contact with these chemicals in daily life.1. Focus on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid processed foods, which often contain preservatives, a source of phenols.2. Physical activity strengthens your heart and improves circulation. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.3. Smoking damages the heart and blood vessels, significantly increasing the risk of heart disease.4. Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart health with regular medical visits.How to Reduce Phenol Exposure for Overall Health?Phenols, including BPA (found in plastics), parabens (common in personal care products like shampoos), and food preservatives, are found in many everyday products. Reducing your exposure to these chemicals can benefit your heart and overall well-being.- Switch to BPA-Free Products: Opt for BPA-free plastics or use glass and stainless steel containers for food storage.- Choose Paraben-Free Personal Care Products: Many shampoos, lotions, and cosmetics contain parabens as preservatives. Look for products labeled as "paraben-free" to reduce exposure.- Eat Fresh, Whole Foods: Processed foods often contain preservatives with phenols. Cooking fresh meals at home is a simple way to limit your intake of these chemicals.- Avoid Canned Foods: Many canned goods contain BPA in their linings. When possible, choose fresh or frozen alternatives.

phenols in your shampoo could be disrupting your heart's rhythm, study finds- ways to reduce exposure

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Trump’s Surgeon General Pick Raises Eyebrows With Vaccine Comments And Wellness Claims

Dr Casey Means, Trump's Pick for US Surgeon General

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In another news, President Donald Trump's latest nominee for <span>US surgeon general</span>, Dr Casey Means, is better known to some as a rising wellness influencer. Over the past year, she has shared her health philosophy with many on various podcast channels, which are popular for wellness content, most of them being right-wing podcast, as <span>US News</span> describes it. These podcasts have discussed everything from organic diets, chronic diseases, their prevention, and of course, vaccine skepticism, and spirituality. 

She may use the surgeon general's platform to promote the lifestyle-based approaches that she has been talking about, which may challenge the conventional views on pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and modern medicines. 

Now 37, Dr Means left her residency program to focus on what she calls the "root causes" of disease. She believes that chronic illnesses such as obesity, infertility, cancer, and Alzheimer's are not being properly addressed by traditional medicines. 

As per her, a combination of environmental toxins, processed food, and tech overuse is damaging the body's metabolic system, which remains the core of most chronic health problems. 

Speaking to Joe Rogan in October, she said: “It’s all caused by metabolic dysfunction, a term that I never learned in medical school.” Her philosophy closely mirrors that of Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr., who has called for deep investigations into environmental factors behind conditions like autism.

Dr. Means has voiced concern over the widespread use of certain drugs. On “The Tucker Carlson Show,” she criticized the overprescription of birth control pills, calling it a “disrespect of things that create life.” She also raised alarms over the use of popular weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, calling them “very dark” and suggesting they promote the false idea of a “magic pill” for health.

Much of Dr. Means’ health advice centers on diet. She advocates for organic, non-GMO foods and warns against refined sugars, pesticides, and ultra-processed meals. On Jay Shetty’s podcast, she even suggested an executive order to eliminate added sugars from school lunches.

Her concerns extend to seed oils—like canola and soybean—which she groups with harmful food additives. Although mainstream nutrition experts say such oils can be beneficial in moderation, Means believes they contribute to declining public health.

While Dr. Means often prefaces her vaccine comments by noting it's not her area of expertise, she has publicly questioned parts of the U.S. childhood vaccination schedule. On Kristin Cavallari’s podcast, she pointed to the hepatitis B vaccine for newborns as her “gateway” to questioning broader vaccine policies.

She also criticized COVID-19 vaccine mandates, saying they caused significant societal harm and sparked public distrust in health institutions. “Maybe we shouldn’t be blindly trusting the experts,” she said.

Dr. Means blends science with spirituality in her view of wellness. She’s described current public health trends as “extinction-level” and frequently says “Rome is burning” to describe the urgency. For her, healing requires not just lifestyle changes but also a deep spiritual reconnection with the body, Earth, and the divine.

“Do we want to connect with God and respect these temples we’ve been given?” she asked Rogan. “That’s the choice we have right now.”

who is trumps pick for us surgeon general

casey means us surgeon general

health news

us news

who is casey means

us surgeon general

In another news, President Donald Trump's latest nominee for US surgeon general, Dr Casey Means, is better known to some as a rising wellness influencer. Over the past year, she has shared her health philosophy with many on various podcast channels, which are popular for wellness content, most of them being right-wing podcast, as US News describes it. These podcasts have discussed everything from organic diets, chronic diseases, their prevention, and of course, vaccine skepticism, and spirituality. She may use the surgeon general's platform to promote the lifestyle-based approaches that she has been talking about, which may challenge the conventional views on pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and modern medicines. Focusing On Root CauseNow 37, Dr Means left her residency program to focus on what she calls the "root causes" of disease. She believes that chronic illnesses such as obesity, infertility, cancer, and Alzheimer's are not being properly addressed by traditional medicines. As per her, a combination of environmental toxins, processed food, and tech overuse is damaging the body's metabolic system, which remains the core of most chronic health problems. Speaking to Joe Rogan in October, she said: “It’s all caused by metabolic dysfunction, a term that I never learned in medical school.” Her philosophy closely mirrors that of Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr., who has called for deep investigations into environmental factors behind conditions like autism.Dr. Means has voiced concern over the widespread use of certain drugs. On “The Tucker Carlson Show,” she criticized the overprescription of birth control pills, calling it a “disrespect of things that create life.” She also raised alarms over the use of popular weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, calling them “very dark” and suggesting they promote the false idea of a “magic pill” for health.Rejection Of Processed FoodMuch of Dr. Means’ health advice centers on diet. She advocates for organic, non-GMO foods and warns against refined sugars, pesticides, and ultra-processed meals. On Jay Shetty’s podcast, she even suggested an executive order to eliminate added sugars from school lunches.Her concerns extend to seed oils—like canola and soybean—which she groups with harmful food additives. Although mainstream nutrition experts say such oils can be beneficial in moderation, Means believes they contribute to declining public health.While Dr. Means often prefaces her vaccine comments by noting it's not her area of expertise, she has publicly questioned parts of the U.S. childhood vaccination schedule. On Kristin Cavallari’s podcast, she pointed to the hepatitis B vaccine for newborns as her “gateway” to questioning broader vaccine policies.She also criticized COVID-19 vaccine mandates, saying they caused significant societal harm and sparked public distrust in health institutions. “Maybe we shouldn’t be blindly trusting the experts,” she said.Dr. Means blends science with spirituality in her view of wellness. She’s described current public health trends as “extinction-level” and frequently says “Rome is burning” to describe the urgency. For her, healing requires not just lifestyle changes but also a deep spiritual reconnection with the body, Earth, and the divine.“Do we want to connect with God and respect these temples we’ve been given?” she asked Rogan. “That’s the choice we have right now.”

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Anyone who has ever cared for a child with painful <span>ear infection</span> would know how difficult those days and nights are when the child is unable to be at peace. Relief often takes time, and sometimes doe not at all come. However, ear infections in toddlers are quite a common phenomenon, and are often stubborn. Children can also develop resistance to standard antibiotics due to its constant use. This means the infection can return even after days of treatment. 

Researchers at Cornell University may have found it. There is an alternative that exist- a single-dose, topical antibiotic gel that could simplify treatment and reduce recuring infections. 

While earlier, the doctors have relief on oral antibiotics, which also had side effects like upset stomachs, and year infections. This new method delivers medicines directly in the infected ear. Doctors predict this to be game changer, especially for children who struggle with oral medication. 

However, the challenge is that most ear infections affect the middle ear, which sits behind the eardrum. This is the barrier that most drugs cannot cross. This is where the new approach and its innovation comes into play. 

<h4>The Gel And The Science Behind It</h4>

The research is led by Rong Yang, assistant professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, and the Cornell team have found their way around. They have packaged the antibiotic ciprofloxacin into microscopic delivery vehicles called liposomes. These are tiny, bubble-like structure which are used to carry drugs to hard-to-reach parts of the body. 

These liposomes are negatively charged, which then helps them to bind better to the ear tissue. They are then incorporated into a gel-like salve, which is then applied directly to the eardrum. 

In lab tests on chinchillas — whose ears closely resemble human ears — the results were impressive. The infections cleared up within 24 hours of a single application. Over the next week, no signs of the infection returned, and there was no inflammation in the eardrums.

The study, recently published in ACS Nano, marks a significant step toward making ear infection treatment faster, more effective, and less taxing on children and their families.

Despite these promising results, researchers caution that what works in animals doesn’t always translate directly to humans. Other versions of the gel tested on chinchillas were less effective, and much more work remains before this treatment can be approved for children.

Still, the potential is real. "A single-dose treatment for middle ear infections represents a significant step forward," Yang said in a statement. "It could reduce the burden on families and improve outcomes for young children."

She added that moving from lab tests to clinical trials is the next key step: "It has the potential to improve patient compliance, reduce antibiotic resistance, and ultimately transform how children receive antibiotics."

ear infection

pediatrics

gel based antibiotics

antibiotics resistance

Anyone who has ever cared for a child with painful ear infection would know how difficult those days and nights are when the child is unable to be at peace. Relief often takes time, and sometimes doe not at all come. However, ear infections in toddlers are quite a common phenomenon, and are often stubborn. Children can also develop resistance to standard antibiotics due to its constant use. This means the infection can return even after days of treatment. So, what is the solution?Researchers at Cornell University may have found it. There is an alternative that exist- a single-dose, topical antibiotic gel that could simplify treatment and reduce recuring infections. What Does It Do?While earlier, the doctors have relief on oral antibiotics, which also had side effects like upset stomachs, and year infections. This new method delivers medicines directly in the infected ear. Doctors predict this to be game changer, especially for children who struggle with oral medication. However, the challenge is that most ear infections affect the middle ear, which sits behind the eardrum. This is the barrier that most drugs cannot cross. This is where the new approach and its innovation comes into play. The Gel And The Science Behind ItThe research is led by Rong Yang, assistant professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, and the Cornell team have found their way around. They have packaged the antibiotic ciprofloxacin into microscopic delivery vehicles called liposomes. These are tiny, bubble-like structure which are used to carry drugs to hard-to-reach parts of the body. These liposomes are negatively charged, which then helps them to bind better to the ear tissue. They are then incorporated into a gel-like salve, which is then applied directly to the eardrum. What Do We Know Of The Trials?In lab tests on chinchillas — whose ears closely resemble human ears — the results were impressive. The infections cleared up within 24 hours of a single application. Over the next week, no signs of the infection returned, and there was no inflammation in the eardrums.The study, recently published in ACS Nano, marks a significant step toward making ear infection treatment faster, more effective, and less taxing on children and their families.Are There Any Challenges?Despite these promising results, researchers caution that what works in animals doesn’t always translate directly to humans. Other versions of the gel tested on chinchillas were less effective, and much more work remains before this treatment can be approved for children.Still, the potential is real. "A single-dose treatment for middle ear infections represents a significant step forward," Yang said in a statement. "It could reduce the burden on families and improve outcomes for young children."She added that moving from lab tests to clinical trials is the next key step: "It has the potential to improve patient compliance, reduce antibiotic resistance, and ultimately transform how children receive antibiotics."

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A massive recall has been issued for over 2 million eye drop cartons due to concerns over sterility that can be potentially harmful and lead to serious eye infections, blindness, and even permanent blindness in extreme cases.

The voluntary recall, issued jointly by AvKARE, a Tennessee pharmaceutical distributor, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is being labeled a Class II recall—meaning that although the danger of serious harm is relatively minor, the harm can be transient or medically reversible.

The eye drops were recalled from store shelves after an FDA audit uncovered manufacturing deficiencies that rendered product sterility in doubt. Although neither the FDA nor AvKARE would reveal the specifics regarding the manufacturing deficiencies, the notice of recall mentioned a "lack of assurance of sterility"—a rather disturbing red flag for products that are applied directly to the eyes.

Ophthalmic sterility is non-negotiable. A compromise of sterility, however slight, invites bacterial contamination, which has the potential to penetrate the soft tissues of the eye and develop catastrophic infections.

These products have been shipped between May 26, 2023, and April 21, 2025, which could have endangered millions of customers—particularly those who are addressing chronic dry eye symptoms or season allergies.

<h2>How Can Eye Drops Cause Blindness?</h2>

To the typical consumer, a contaminated eye drop bottle may not appear to be anything. But the reality is darker. Non-sterile solutions can be a portal of entry for bacteria, fungi, or even parasites, all of which can wreak havoc on the internal environment of the eye.

In 2023, when contaminated eye drops containing a drug-resistant bacteria strain caused 50 infections in 11 U.S. states. That outbreak caused one death and several cases of permanent blindness, highlighting just how perilous contaminated eye drops are.

More disturbing is the likelihood that consumers will unknowingly use these recalled products, particularly at the height of allergy season, when dry eyes are a frequent complaint and over-the-counter relief is in high demand.

If you have recently used one of the recalled eye drops, beware of these warning signs of potential infection:

<ul><li>Redness or swelling of the eye</li><li>Pain or stinging</li><li>Blurred vision or visual changes</li><li>Abnormal discharge or watery eyes</li><li>Increased sensitivity to light</li></ul>

Although no health problems have yet been officially reported regarding this particular recall, an early intervention is always the best course of action. If infection is suspected, stop using at once and seek an ophthalmologist. AvKARE has put out a strong notice:

Immediately stop using the recalled products. Retailers are requested to pull the products from store shelves and return all unsold merchandise to the distributor for a full refund, including the cost of return shipping.

The recall was initiated by BRS Analytical Service, LLC, an independent laboratory that tests pharmaceuticals for compliance. The action demonstrates growing scrutiny from the FDA, particularly after last year's death from eye drops.

Although the identity of the manufacturer is not revealed, the FDA has not eliminated further action, particularly if more products prove to be dangerous.

<h2>What This Means For Your <span rel="noindex">Eye Health</span>?</h2>

This event brings to the fore the larger issues regarding the regulation and testing of over-the-counter (OTC) eye care products. It acts as a reminder for consumers and medical professionals alike to ensure that proper eye hygiene, product handling, and consultation with medical practitioners at the right time are ensured.

Even synthetic tears, deemed by most to be harmless, may induce temporary blurring of the vision, allergic reactions, or introduce irritants in the form of preservatives or thickeners if improperly used. No prescription or OTC eye drop should be employed for longer than recommended, and sharing usage is strictly avoided.

The patient should also understand that improper packaging and expired usage can weaken the product and even inflict more harm. Always examine the seal and expiration date and never use bottles with broken or tampered packages.

<h2>What To Do If Your Eyes Are Affected?</h2>

You may see a complete list of the products recalled and lot numbers on the FDA or AvKARE's official notice of recall webpage. If you already have the affected eye drops:

<ul><li>Discontinue use immediately.</li><li>Place them in a sealed bag to avoid accidental opening.</li><li>Get a refund or disposal guidance from your retailer.</li><li>Consult a healthcare professional if you're experiencing symptoms.</li></ul>

Medical practitioners are also cautioned to inform the FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program about any product quality issues or adverse events. 

Stay up to date, read labels attentively, and never settle for the safety of what you put in your eyes. If you use eye drops frequently, think about talking to a certified ophthalmologist to discuss preservative-free options and individualized choices that are safer for long-term use.

eye health

eye drop recall 2025

fda eye drop warning

avkare eye drops

dry eye treatment risks

non-sterile eye drops danger

recalled eye drop brands

vision loss from eye drops

A massive recall has been issued for over 2 million eye drop cartons due to concerns over sterility that can be potentially harmful and lead to serious eye infections, blindness, and even permanent blindness in extreme cases.The voluntary recall, issued jointly by AvKARE, a Tennessee pharmaceutical distributor, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is being labeled a Class II recall—meaning that although the danger of serious harm is relatively minor, the harm can be transient or medically reversible.The eye drops were recalled from store shelves after an FDA audit uncovered manufacturing deficiencies that rendered product sterility in doubt. Although neither the FDA nor AvKARE would reveal the specifics regarding the manufacturing deficiencies, the notice of recall mentioned a "lack of assurance of sterility"—a rather disturbing red flag for products that are applied directly to the eyes.Ophthalmic sterility is non-negotiable. A compromise of sterility, however slight, invites bacterial contamination, which has the potential to penetrate the soft tissues of the eye and develop catastrophic infections.These products have been shipped between May 26, 2023, and April 21, 2025, which could have endangered millions of customers—particularly those who are addressing chronic dry eye symptoms or season allergies.How Can Eye Drops Cause Blindness?To the typical consumer, a contaminated eye drop bottle may not appear to be anything. But the reality is darker. Non-sterile solutions can be a portal of entry for bacteria, fungi, or even parasites, all of which can wreak havoc on the internal environment of the eye.In 2023, when contaminated eye drops containing a drug-resistant bacteria strain caused 50 infections in 11 U.S. states. That outbreak caused one death and several cases of permanent blindness, highlighting just how perilous contaminated eye drops are.More disturbing is the likelihood that consumers will unknowingly use these recalled products, particularly at the height of allergy season, when dry eyes are a frequent complaint and over-the-counter relief is in high demand.If you have recently used one of the recalled eye drops, beware of these warning signs of potential infection:Redness or swelling of the eyePain or stingingBlurred vision or visual changesAbnormal discharge or watery eyesIncreased sensitivity to lightAlthough no health problems have yet been officially reported regarding this particular recall, an early intervention is always the best course of action. If infection is suspected, stop using at once and seek an ophthalmologist. AvKARE has put out a strong notice:Immediately stop using the recalled products. Retailers are requested to pull the products from store shelves and return all unsold merchandise to the distributor for a full refund, including the cost of return shipping.The recall was initiated by BRS Analytical Service, LLC, an independent laboratory that tests pharmaceuticals for compliance. The action demonstrates growing scrutiny from the FDA, particularly after last year's death from eye drops.Although the identity of the manufacturer is not revealed, the FDA has not eliminated further action, particularly if more products prove to be dangerous.What This Means For Your Eye Health?This event brings to the fore the larger issues regarding the regulation and testing of over-the-counter (OTC) eye care products. It acts as a reminder for consumers and medical professionals alike to ensure that proper eye hygiene, product handling, and consultation with medical practitioners at the right time are ensured.Even synthetic tears, deemed by most to be harmless, may induce temporary blurring of the vision, allergic reactions, or introduce irritants in the form of preservatives or thickeners if improperly used. No prescription or OTC eye drop should be employed for longer than recommended, and sharing usage is strictly avoided.The patient should also understand that improper packaging and expired usage can weaken the product and even inflict more harm. Always examine the seal and expiration date and never use bottles with broken or tampered packages.What To Do If Your Eyes Are Affected?You may see a complete list of the products recalled and lot numbers on the FDA or AvKARE's official notice of recall webpage. If you already have the affected eye drops:Discontinue use immediately.Place them in a sealed bag to avoid accidental opening.Get a refund or disposal guidance from your retailer.Consult a healthcare professional if you're experiencing symptoms.Medical practitioners are also cautioned to inform the FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program about any product quality issues or adverse events. Stay up to date, read labels attentively, and never settle for the safety of what you put in your eyes. If you use eye drops frequently, think about talking to a certified ophthalmologist to discuss preservative-free options and individualized choices that are safer for long-term use.

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