Discoloration and a Shorter Shelf Life
In March 6, 2007, Bausch & Lomb did a voluntary recall of 12 lots of their lens care solution ReNu MultiPlus because they were expected to have a shorter shelf life than their expiration dates indicated, which would mean a loss of effectiveness. The Bausch & Lomb ReNu solution has a two-year shelf life. The company received three customer reports that their bottle had a discolored solution, although the expiration date had not passed. Upon investigation, Bausch & Lomb found an elevated level of trace iron and found that in combination with other compounds in the solution, this would not only cause discoloration, but also shorten the shelf life.
If you have any of this ReNu lens care solution that looks discolored, you should discard it. The expiration date on the label is “2008 – 03”.
Fusarium keratitis
Fusarium is an infectious fungus that can cause Fusarium keratitis, an infection of the cornea. In March 8, 2006, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) received a report about three cases in New Jersey of Fusarium keratitis connected to use of Bausch & Lomb’s ReNu solution. They also found that other cases of Fusarium keratitus had been seen nationwide, and they issued a warning for contact lens users on April 10, 2006. In February 2006, Bausch & Lomb had already recalled its ReNu multi-purpose solutions in Singapore and Hong Kong for the same reason.
Some of those patients had to have a corneal transplantation. The FDA has an ongoing investigation with the CDC, as well as State and local health departments to determine whether Fusarium keratitis infections are increasing, and to pinpoint any specific actions or practices that might increase the risk of sustaining one.
For more information on Fusarium keratitis or the risks associated with use of the ReNu lens cleaning solution, contact Burg Simpson, Attorneys & Counselors at Law in Colorado, Wyoming, Ohio and Texas.
