Bright Eyes eye drops

Consumers are advised not to purchase Bright Eyes products being offered for sale on the internet.

Overseas-based websites are selling products called ‘Bright Eyes eye drops for Cataracts’ and ‘Bright Eyes eye drops for Glaucoma’. Some of these websites may create the impression that they have Australian-based operations.

As with many therapeutic goods being sold on the internet, these products:

• are not recognised or approved cataract or glaucoma treatments
• have not been evaluated by the TGA for safety or efficacy (effectiveness)
• make advertising claims that have not been substantiated in relation to serious diseases such as cataracts and glaucoma
• make advertising claims that are restricted representations, requiring TGA approval before they can be used.

The internet can offer consumers a convenient way to access therapeutic goods, but online purchases of medicines or medical devices should be approached with caution.

Products supplied from overseas websites are not regulated by the TGA. If care is not taken, consumers may inadvertently risk their health, waste their money or break the law.

The TGA has previously published information about buying therapeutic goods over the internet, what to do and what to be wary of.

Information for consumers

If you, or someone you care for, have purchased ‘Bright Eyes eye drops for Cataracts’ or ‘Bright Eyes eye drops for Glaucoma’ stop using them and take any remaining product to a pharmacy for safe disposal.

Cataracts and glaucoma are serious eye conditions and if you suspect you, or someone you care for, has either condition a health professional should be consulted for treatment.

Information for health professionals

If you are treating a patient who is using Bright Eyes eye drops, advise them to discontinue use and take any remaining product to a pharmacy for safe disposal.

Refer them to a GP or ophthalmologist as appropriate for treatment.

(Source: Australian Government – Department of Health)