Rumors about the complete discontinuation of REFRESH eye drops have circulated due to several separate events involving specific products under the brand. However, the full story is more nuanced. While certain older products have been phased out and some lots have been recalled by the manufacturer, Allergan (now owned by AbbVie), the REFRESH brand itself is still a major player in the eye care market and continues to offer a wide range of products for dry and irritated eyes.
Discontinued and Recalled REFRESH Products
To clarify the confusion, it is important to distinguish between discontinued products and recalled products, as both have happened within the REFRESH brand family.
Refresh Dry Eye Therapy Discontinued in the U.S.
According to reports on Drugs.com and other sources, the brand name Refresh Dry Eye Therapy has been officially discontinued in the U.S. as of May 20, 2025. This does not mean that the entire line of REFRESH drops is gone, but rather that this specific product is no longer sold under that name. Generic equivalents may be available depending on the formula, but consumers will no longer find the brand-name version on store shelves.
Recent Recalls of Specific Lots
Several recalls have also affected the REFRESH brand, triggering public concern and contributing to the belief that the brand was being pulled entirely. These were specific, targeted recalls, not a complete removal of all REFRESH products.
- Refresh Relieva PF Eye Drops (2025): In September 2025, a recall was issued for two specific lots of Refresh Relieva PF eye drops with expiration dates in July and August 2022. The recall was initiated due to potential contamination risks, leading the manufacturer to urge customers to stop using the affected lots immediately. It is crucial to note that this recall applied only to specific lot numbers and expiration dates, not all Relieva products.
- Refresh P.M. and Refresh Lacri-Lube Eye Ointments (2024): In September 2024, millions of tubes of Refresh P.M. and Refresh Lacri-Lube eye ointments were recalled due to a tube sealing issue that could lead to leakage and contamination. This was a significant recall, but it only affected these specific ointment products.
The REFRESH Brand Is Still Active and Expanding
While some older products have been phased out and specific recalls have occurred, the REFRESH brand has continued to innovate and expand its product offerings. The manufacturer, AbbVie (which acquired Allergan), has launched new products and continues to promote its existing popular lines.
- Newer Products: AbbVie has introduced new formulations like Refresh Digital, a lubricant eye drop designed to specifically relieve dryness associated with screen time, as recently as February 2021.
- Expanding Portfolio: In October 2019, Allergan expanded its REFRESH portfolio with the introduction of Refresh Relieva products, including a preservative-free multi-dose bottle, providing new options for patients with dry or irritated eyes.
Comparison of REFRESH Products vs. Alternatives
| Feature | Recalled/Discontinued REFRESH Products | Active REFRESH Products | Alternative Lubricant Eye Drops (e.g., Systane) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Availability | No longer available for sale, or specific lot numbers have been recalled. | Widely available online and in retail stores. | Widely available from various manufacturers. |
| Example Products | Refresh Dry Eye Therapy (U.S.), certain lots of Refresh Relieva PF (2025), Refresh P.M. (2024) | Refresh Digital, Refresh Relieva, Refresh Optive, Refresh Tears | Systane, TheraTears, Blink Tears |
| Status | Discontinued or subject to recall. Do not use. | Actively marketed and sold by the manufacturer. | Competitive products for dry eye relief. |
| Reason for Removal | Brand name updates, manufacturing deviations, or contamination risks. | N/A (current market products) | N/A (different manufacturer) |
| Consumer Action | Stop using immediately and discard. | Check for specific recalls if experiencing issues, otherwise safe to use as directed. | Follow manufacturer instructions. |
| Finding Replacements | Consult an eye care professional or refer to the chart of available alternatives. | N/A (still available) | Consult an eye care professional for the best fit. |
What You Should Do If You Use REFRESH Drops
If you are a regular user of REFRESH eye drops, here are the steps you should take to ensure your eye health and safety:
- Check for Recalls: Always check the lot number and expiration date on your product against the latest FDA Enforcement Report to ensure your product has not been recalled.
- Confirm Product Status: If you used a product like Refresh Dry Eye Therapy, it has been discontinued, and you should seek out a newer REFRESH product or alternative for future use.
- Look for Alternatives: If you are concerned about product availability or are looking for a new option, many high-quality alternatives are available, both over-the-counter and by prescription. Options include Systane, TheraTears, and Blink Tears. For specific concerns, it is always best to consult with an ophthalmologist or optometrist.
- Report Issues: If you experience any adverse reactions or quality problems with any medication, you should report it to the FDA's MedWatch program.
Conclusion
In summary, the reports of REFRESH eye drops being discontinued are largely based on misinformation stemming from targeted recalls and brand-specific product changes. While some older products have been retired and certain lots recalled due to safety concerns, the REFRESH brand remains active and continues to offer a variety of eye care products. Consumers should exercise caution by staying informed about recalls, checking product lot numbers, and consulting with a healthcare provider for any eye health concerns. The key takeaway is to rely on reputable sources like the FDA and manufacturer statements for the most accurate information on product status and safety.
