Continuing Recall of MoisturePlus Multipurpose Contact Lens Solution

Posted on April 29, 2008

In May 2007, Advanced Medical Optics voluntarily recalled its MoisturePlus Multipurpose Solution for contact lenses because using this product may be associated with an increased risk of Acanthamoeba keratitis. This is a rare but serious eye infection that may cause vision loss and require corneal transplant. An investigation by CDC determined that the incidence of Acanthamoeba keratitis was at least seven times greater in users of MoisturePlus than in those using other contact lens solutions.

Cases of Acanthamoeba keratitis associated with the recalled product have continued to be reported to CDC even after the recall was announced in May. This indicates that many consumers may not be aware of AMO’s recall and may still be using the recalled solution.

Clinicians should tell patients to stop using MoisturePlus Multipurpose solution immediately, and to replace their lenses and storage container. They should instruct patients to consult an eye care professional if they have symptoms of an ocular infection, such as redness, pain, excessive tearing, increased light sensitivity, blurry vision or a sensation of something in the eye. This is important because early diagnosis of Acanthamoeba keratitis increases the chance of successful treatment.

FDA is recommending that clinicians consider an Acanthamoeba infection when a patient presents with an infectious keratitis. When appropriate, the patient should be referred to an eye care professional to obtain a corneal scraping for laboratory analysis.

Here are a few recommendations on how to prevent eye infections:

• Remove the lenses before any activity involving contact with water, including showering, using a hot tub or swimming.

• Wash the hands with soap and water and dry them before handling the lenses.

• Use fresh cleaning or disinfecting solution each time the lenses are cleaned and stored. Never re-use or top off old solution.

• And irrigate the storage case with sterile contact lens solution, never tap water, and leave the case open to dry after each use. Replace the case at least once every three months.

Additional Information:

FDA MedWatch Safety Alert. Advanced Medical Optics Complete MoisturePlus Contact Lens Solution. May 29, 2007.
http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/safety/2007/safety07.htm#AMO

CDC. Check Your Medicine Cabinet: Consumer Knowledge of Contact Lens Solution Recall. July 31, 2007.
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/acanthamoeba/2007outbreak_fieldepi_ak.htm