Eye Lubricant Ignites During Laser Surgery

USP recently received a report regarding the use of a petroleum-based eye lubricant, Lacri-Lube® S.O.P.®, manufactured by Allergan. In the report, the lubricant was applied to the eyelid and periorbital area of a 4-year-old patient undergoing laser surgery to remove warts around the eye. When a laser was directed to the area, eyelashes and eyelid ignited, injuring the patient's left eye.

Lacri-Lube S.O.P. consists primarily of White Petrolatum and Mineral Oil, with small amounts of Chlorobutanol and Lanolin Alcohols. According to the reporter, the hospital where this incident took place is replacing oil-based ocular lubricants with water-based products for procedures in which a laser or other heat source is used in close proximity to the lubricant.

The Lacri-Lube S.O.P. packaging does not currently indicate a risk of igniting or the possibility of injury when the product is used in proximity to a laser or heat source. Several common drug references make no such claims either. Based on this incident, health care practitioners should be aware of the possible dangers of using Lacri-Lube S.O.P. in conjunction with lasers and/or any heat sources in their practices.

Readers are advised that official USP cautions and warnings for drugs appear in the USP-NF or USP DI. Unless otherwise indicated, any advice or opinions expressed herein reflect solely the judgment of USP staff. Such statements are intended for further consideration and evaluation and may or may not be applicable to a particular practice.