04/06/2026
Yes, this fact check is accurate based on information available as of April 5, 2026.
Over 3.1 million bottles of eye drops manufactured by K.C. Pharmaceuticals, Inc. have been voluntarily recalled nationwide in the United States due to potential sterility issues. [1, 2, 3, 4]
Key Details of the April 2026 Recall
• Manufacturer: K.C. Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (based in Pomona, California).
• Reason: "Lack of assurance of sterility".
• FDA Class: Class II recall (means the product may cause temporary or reversible adverse health consequences).
• Scope: More than 3.1 million bottles.
• Timeline: Initiated voluntarily by the company on March 3, 2026; designated Class II on March 31, 2026.
• Expiration Dates: Affected products have expiration dates ranging from April 2026 to October 2026. [2, 5, 6, 7, 8]
Affected Brands and Retailers
The recalled products are "store-brand" items (private label) sold at major retailers nationwide, including:
• CVS Health
• Walgreens
• Rite Aid
• Kroger
• HEB
• Publix
• Meijer
• Dollar General
• Harris Teeter
• Leader (Cardinal Health)
• GoodSense
• Best Choice
Specific Products Affected
The recall covers eight different types of over-the-counter (OTC) eye drops, including:
1. Dry Eye Relief Eye Drops (Over 1 million bottles)
2. Artificial Tears Sterile Lubricant Eye Drops
3. Sterile Eye Drops Original Formula
4. Sterile Eye Drops Redness Lubricant
5. Eye Drops (Advanced Relief)
6. Ultra Lubricating Eye Drops
7. Sterile Eye Drops AC
8. Sterile Eye Drops Soothing Tears [10]
Actions to Take
• Check your medicine cabinet: Look for the brands listed above, particularly if they have 2026 expiration dates.
• Check lot codes: The FDA lists specific codes starting with AC, AR, LT, SU, RG, RL, SY, or AT.
• Stop using immediately: The FDA recommends stopping use immediately.
• Discard or Return: Return the product to the place of purchase for a refund or dispose of it safely.
• Monitor for symptoms: If you
