12/23/2006

News in Brief

Mold prompts eyedrops recall

TRAVERSE CITY — An eyedrop product has been voluntarily recalled after testing found mold in opened, partially used bottles.

Alcon Laboratories, Inc. announced the recall of Systane Free Liquid Gel lubricant eye drops. The company, in a press release, stated the recall is a response to 11 consumer reports citing the presence of "foreign material” identified as mold. The company said an infection is "unlikely” and none have been reported.

The recall applies only to this formulation of Systane drops, the company stated.

Local pharmacist Mark Thompson of Thompson Pharmacy knew about the recall because of an e-mail notice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. He is not selling the product.

Consumers who have the eyedrops should stop use and (866) 608-3936.

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