Thursday March 16, 2006
ReNu solution withdrawn
By IZATUN SHARI
KUALA LUMPUR: Optical stores and pharmacies have been ordered to withdraw the ReNu multi-purpose contact lens care solution from their shelves with immediate effect.
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Dr Chua: ‘ReNu had the most number of complaints’ |
Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek said the ministry was informed by the Tun Hussein eye hospital in Petaling Jaya that there were 14 reported cases of fungal keratitis infections from Jan 1, 2005 to February, this year.
“We have asked that the ReNu multi-purpose contact lens care solution be withdrawn first,” he told reporters after launching Swedish company Etac’s medical devices for the physically disabled people at the Swedish Embassy here yesterday.
He said that of the 14 cases, six patients used ReNu multipurpose contact lens solutions, one used a combination of ReNu and Alcon, while the rest used Complete contact lens solution.
On whether he had given a timeframe to pharmacies and optical outlets for the withdrawal of the product, he said: “I have not given a timeframe but they should be responsible.”
He said the ministry would take appropriate action against optical shops and pharmacies which refused to abide by the directive.
Asked about the fate of the other two brands, he said: “I've asked ReNu to be withdrawn first because it had the most number of complaints.”
He said fungal keratitis infection, which damages the cornea, could cause blindness and cataract.
In Hong Kong, 12 ReNu users were reportedly infected between June and January last year.
Earlier, in a statement, the ministry had asked all manufacturers and suppliers of contact lens solutions to test their products to make sure it was safe to use.
ReNu manufacturer Bausch & Lomb was also ordered to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fungal infection.
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