CVS, Walgreens get warning letters for selling unapproved eye drops

The two largest pharmacy chains in the country are being warned to stop selling illegally marketed, unapproved drugs.

5 On Your Side learned that CVS and Walgreens both got letters from the FDA about eye drops that are considered unapproved new drugs.

The products include "CVS Health Pink Eye Relief Drops," "Walgreens Stye Eye Drops," "Walgreens Pink Eye Drops" and "Walgreens Allergy Eye Drops."

The FDA said these products are not generally recognized as safe and effective for the uses advertised.

CVS confirmed they have stopped selling the products in a statement distributed on Tuesday.

“Upon receipt of the FDA’s Warning Letter, we have stopped the sale of CVS Health Brand Pink Eye Relief Eye Drops at our stores and online. Customers who purchased this product can return it to CVS Pharmacy for a full refund. We’re committed to ensuring the products we offer are safe, work as intended and satisfy customers.“

Walgreens also sent WRAL News a statement about taking the products off shelves.

"Out of an abundance of caution, we are pulling these products. Customers who have purchased these products can return the item to their nearest Walgreens for a full refund."

Federal officials are also particularly concerned that these products contain silver sulfate as a preservative. Officials said long-term use of medical compounds containing silver may cause argyria, which is a bluish-gray discoloration of the skin and eyes that is permanent.

Anyone using these products is being advised to talk with their health care professional.

The companies have 15 days to respond to the letters explaining how they will correct violations.