Navigating Eye Product Safety: The Status of Muro 128 Ointment
Recent years have seen a significant number of recalls for over-the-counter eye drops, raising public concern about product safety [1.8.6]. This has led many users of specialty products to question the status of their own medications. A common query is whether Muro 128 ointment, a trusted treatment for corneal edema, has been affected. While Bausch + Lomb's Muro 128 ointment is not part of any recent 2023-2025 recalls, it did have a significant recall in 2014, which is important to understand in context.
The 2014 Muro 128 Ointment Recall
In mid-2014, Bausch + Lomb, in cooperation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), initiated a voluntary Class II recall for about 850,000 tubes of Muro 128 5% ointment [1.2.1, 1.2.3]. The issue was not bacterial contamination, as seen in more recent recalls of other products, but the formation of salt crystal precipitates within the ointment tube [1.2.1, 1.2.2].
An internal investigation suggested that some batches were exposed to freezing temperatures during shipping, which caused the salt to crystallize [1.2.2]. This led to a small number of complaints from users experiencing a "gritty, sand-like feeling" in their eyes, with one user describing it as feeling like a "shard of glass" [1.2.1, 1.2.2]. These crystals posed a risk of corneal abrasions or irritation [1.2.1]. The recall affected products with expiration dates between June 2014 and October 2016 and was limited to the United States, Canada, and Hong Kong [1.2.1, 1.2.2]. It's crucial to note this recall was over a decade ago and does not affect products currently on the market.
Widespread Recalls of Other Eye Drop Brands (2023-2025)
The recent anxiety around eye products is largely due to different issues with other manufacturers. Throughout 2023, 2024, and into 2025, the FDA announced multiple recalls for various artificial tear and eye drop brands due to a lack of sterility assurance at manufacturing facilities [1.8.1, 1.8.2, 1.8.6]. For example, in May 2025, distributor AvKARE recalled nearly 76,000 cases of eye care products manufactured by BRS Analytical Services due to deviations from Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) [1.8.2]. These events, some linked to bacterial contamination and serious infections, have made consumers rightly cautious, but Muro 128 was not implicated in these sterility-related recalls [1.8.6].
What Is Muro 128 Ointment and How Does It Work?
Muro 128 is an over-the-counter (OTC) hypertonicity agent used for the temporary relief of corneal edema [1.4.1, 1.4.2]. Corneal edema is swelling of the cornea (the clear, front part of the eye) caused by excess fluid. Muro 128's active ingredient is Sodium Chloride 5% [1.4.1]. This high concentration of salt creates a hypertonic solution, which works by drawing excess fluid out of the cornea through osmosis, thereby reducing the swelling and associated discomfort or blurred vision [1.5.3, 1.5.4]. It is intended to be used under the advice of a doctor and is not a general-purpose lubricating eye ointment for dry eyes [1.3.5, 1.4.6].
Comparison: Muro 128 Ointment vs. Muro 128 Drops
Bausch + Lomb offers Muro 128 in both an ointment and a liquid drop form. While they share the same active ingredient, their properties make them suitable for different situations [1.6.3].
| Feature | Muro 128 Ointment | Muro 128 Drops |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Thick ointment with a petrolatum and lanolin base [1.4.1] | Liquid solution [1.3.2] |
| Best For | Nighttime use, providing long-lasting contact while sleeping [1.6.1] | Daytime use, for temporary relief throughout the day [1.6.2] |
| Vision Impact | Causes significant but temporary blurred vision [1.3.7] | Causes minimal and very brief burning or irritation [1.3.2] |
| Application | A 1/4 inch strip applied inside the lower eyelid [1.7.2] | One or two drops instilled in the eye [1.3.2] |
| Contact Time | Longer, due to its thick consistency [1.6.1] | Shorter, as it mixes with natural tears [1.6.1] |
How to Use Muro 128 Ointment Safely
Proper application is key to effectiveness and safety. Always use this product under the guidance of an eye care professional [1.4.1].
- Wash Hands: Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water [1.7.1].
- Prepare: Pull down the lower eyelid of the affected eye to create a small pocket [1.7.2].
- Apply: Squeeze a small ribbon of ointment (about 1/4 inch) into the pocket. Be careful not to let the tip of the tube touch your eye, eyelid, or any other surface to avoid contamination [1.7.1, 1.7.2].
- Close Eye: Gently close your eye for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the ointment to spread [1.7.1]. Vision will be blurry [1.3.7].
- Clean and Store: Wipe the tip of the tube with a clean tissue before recapping. Store at room temperature and do not freeze [1.4.1, 1.7.1].
Stop use and consult a doctor if your condition worsens, persists for more than 72 hours, or if you experience eye pain or vision changes [1.3.2].
Conclusion
While Muro 128 ointment was recalled in 2014 due to the formation of crystal particles, there are no active recalls for this product as of September 2025. The recent surge in consumer concern stems from widespread, unrelated recalls of other eye drop brands due to sterility issues [1.8.6]. Muro 128 remains an effective OTC treatment for corneal edema when used as directed by a healthcare provider [1.5.3]. To ensure safety, always check for official information from sources like the FDA or the manufacturer, Bausch + Lomb.
For the most current information on drug recalls, you can visit the FDA's drug recall database.
