B + L expands recall

Madison, NJ-Bausch + Lomb (B + L) has expanded its voluntary recall of methylcellulose lubricant ophthalmic solution, USP 1% (Murocel) to six lots. Following this voluntary product recall, B + L will discontinue the product entirely.

This voluntary recall and product discontinuation is an expansion of the voluntary recall of a single lot of the solution that B + L initiated July 6.

According to B + L, the company chose to initiate this six-lot recall in the interest of patient safety after routine stability testing revealed that the lots were out of specification for preservative efficacy. No adverse events have been reported that have been attributed to the product lots being out of specification for preservative efficacy.

The recall is limited only to the United States; it does not affect locations in Europe, the Middle East, or Asia-Pacific regions. Expiry dates of the affected products are Sept. 30, 2011, through Jan. 31, 2013.

In addition to asking consumers to return the affected products to the company, B + L has directly contacted U.S. retailers that have been shipped this product to initiate the recall and inform them of the steps they should take to return the product. B + L also has contacted eye-care professionals to alert them of the recall.

B + L said it has chosen to discontinue the methylcellulose lubricant ophthalmic solution because it has products within its portfolio to treat the same symptoms for which the solution is indicated.