FDA Warns Against Using Copycat Eye Drop Brands

The Food and Drug Administration warned consumers about the potential risk of eye infections associated with three brands of “copycat” eye drops— products that closely resemble major brands.

South Moon, Rebright and FivFivGo eye drops were cited for being easily mistaken for Bausch + Lomb’s Lumify brand eye drops, used to treat redness.

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These copycat drugs are unapproved for sale in the U.S. and are marketed to treat eye conditions such as glaucoma, which would typically require a prescription drug or surgery.

Testing of South Moon and Rebright eye drops purchased online found that the products were contaminated with Burkholderia cepacia complex, a bacteria group that could lead to antibiotic-resistant infection. The eye drops also lacked brimonidine tartrate, the active ingredient in Lumify.  

Although Rebright tested negative for contamination, the FDA is still advising consumers not to use the product.  

Screenshot from a Food and Drug Administration warning that compares advertisements for three copycat products with those for a real Bausch + Lomb Lumify eyedrops.

FDA

It is unclear where the products are from, the FDA said. However, South Moon is labeled as made by Shantou Cross-border Premium Products E-Commerce Co. Ltd. in China.

There have been no reports of negative reactions to the specific products, but the FDA said it is aware of reports related to “possibly fake Lumify” eye drops such as product quality concerns, eye irritation, pain and infection.

Advice to consumers

The FDA recommends that consumers buy eye products only from reputable retailers such as state-licensed pharmacies, and not online retailers selling products with false claims.

Anyone with symptoms of an eye infection should seek medical care immediately.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, signs of an eye infection include:

• Discharge from the eye

• Pain or discomfort

• Redness

• Sensitivity to light

• Blurry vision

• A feeling like something is in the eye