Officials warn firefighters about the risks of using a supplement for smoke exposure

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has reported that certain batches of Clear Eyes Maximum Itchy Eye Relief eye drops have been voluntarily recalled due to potential contamination. According to the FDA notice, the 0.5-fluid-ounce bottles were distributed nationwide by Medtech Products, a subsidiary of Prestige Consumer Healthcare based in New York. The recall applies specifically to lot number 2552A, with a recall number D-0766-2026 and an expiration date of September 30, 2027. The recall began on July 29 and continues as of now. The FDA classified the recall as Class II, indicating that there may be temporary or medically reversible health issues associated with the product. The reason cited for the recall is "lack of assurance of sterility." The affected eye drops are available over-the-counter at major retailers such as CVS and Walmart across the United States. No injuries have been reported thus far, though the company emphasized that the product was not confirmed to be contaminated. A spokesperson for Prestige Consumer Healthcare stated that the recall was initiated out of an abundance of caution and a commitment to consumer safety. The company assured that no other eye drop products were included in the recall. Separately, fire and medical officials have raised concerns regarding the use of a supplement known as glutathione by wildland firefighters exposed to toxic chemicals during wildfires. Glutathione is administered via intravenous injection or through a nebulizer, a device resembling an inhaler. However, the substance has not been approved by the FDA for treating or preventing illnesses, and its safety and efficacy remain unproven. Two pharmacies recently recalled the supplement in August after laboratory tests detected bacterial contamination. One pharmacy noted receiving reports of individuals experiencing symptoms such as fever, chills, and severe headaches. In response, the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF), a union representing approximately 360,000 first responders, issued a safety advisory warning against relying on unverified health claims related to glutathione. The IAFF emphasized that consumers should exercise caution regarding product safety and the assertion that glutathione can treat or prevent diseases. During recent wildfires near Spokane, Washington, which resulted in the destruction of hundreds of buildings, the supplement was offered to firefighters by a nonprofit organization led by licensed naturopathic doctors. This group, known as The Integrative Health Action Network, had previously supplied the supplement to firefighters during the January 2025 wildfires in Los Angeles County. Their involvement with firefighting efforts dates back to the 2017 wildfires in California’s wine country, which devastated thousands of homes. Despite the lack of scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness, some firefighters claim that glutathione has helped them recover from the effects of toxic smoke inhalation. These individuals have lobbied against restrictions on accessing the supplement. However, medical professionals and IAFF representatives expressed concern over the absence of rigorous research validating the supplement’s safety and effectiveness. Reports indicate that some firefighters experienced worsening symptoms or fell ill after receiving treatment with glutathione. Jen Riegle, a naturopathic doctor and co-founder of The Integrative Health Action Network, acknowledged the need for peer-reviewed research into whether glutathione can mitigate the harmful effects of chemical exposure in firefighters. She stated that the organization is actively seeking partnerships to conduct further studies on the topic. Wildfire smoke poses significant health risks, particularly when fires occur in urban areas where burning household items release additional toxins. Long-term exposure to these substances contributes to tens of thousands of deaths annually in the United States. Firefighters often operate under challenging conditions that make the use of traditional respiratory protection impractical, exposing them to a range of hazardous chemicals with both immediate and lasting health implications. Pasadena Fire Captain Matt Caffey, who has served as a paramedic for 28 years, described the physical and cognitive toll of smoke exposure from burning neighborhoods, including symptoms such as coughing, vomiting, and brain fog. He recounted feeling disoriented and unable to function normally after exposure, stating, “You can’t remember things. You’re just so behind the eight ball. You’re not recovering.” Caffey is among those who believe glutathione provides relief and encouraged the Integrative Health Action Network to provide the supplement in Spokane. Earlier in 2025, the California Board of Pharmacy reversed regulations that would have limited access to the supplement after pressure from some firefighters.