Xiidra overview
BRAND NAMES:
Xiidra
Generic Names:
Lifitegrast
Uses:
Treats dry eye disease
Therapeutic Classes:
Lubricant, Ocular
Forms:
Drop, Liquid
How it’s taken:
Into the eye
What is Xiidra used for?
Xiidra is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat dry eye disease in people aged 17 years and older. Dry eye disease, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca or dry eye syndrome, is a condition affecting the eyes' ability to produce enough tears. As a result, dry eye disease can cause discomfort, eye irritation, and blurred vision. Clinical studies have shown that using Xiidra reduces eye dryness symptoms within two weeks. With continued twice-daily use, improvements were observed at 6 and 12 weeks.
Key takeaways
Xiidra (lifitegrast) is a brand-name drug used to treat the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease in adults. It is classified as a lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1) antagonist.
Xiidra works in a unique way by blocking a protein called integrin LFA-1 on the surface of T-cell leukocytes, which prevents its binding to another molecule called ICAM-1. As a result, Xiidra reduces the release of inflammatory chemicals that contribute to dry eye disease.
Xiidra is administered as a liquid eye drop in single-use vials. The typical dosage is twice per day, around 12 hours between each dose. Take care not to touch the dropper tip to any surface to avoid potential contamination.
Unlike over-the-counter artificial tears, which offer temporary relief, Xiidra may provide lasting relief for dry eye symptoms. That’s because it targets a root cause of inflammation associated with the disease.
What form(s) does Xiidra come in
Eye drop solution
50 mg/mL (5%)
What are common Xiidra doses?
One drop instilled in each eye twice daily, around 12 hours apart.
Common Xiidra prescriptions
Xiidra
5% solution
How to take Xiidra
To use the eye drops:
Remove the Xiidra single-use container from its package.
Twist off the cap and discard it.
Tilt your head back slightly and gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
Hold the container above the eye with the tip facing downward.
Gently squeeze the container to release one drop into the pocket made between your lower lid and eyeball.
Close your eyes and gently place your index finger over the inner corner of your eye for one to two minutes.
Do not rinse or wipe the dropper or allow it to touch anything, including your eye.
Put the cap on the bottle right away.
Keep the bottle upright when you are not using it.
Once you have applied a drop to both eyes, throw away the opened single-use container.
If you wear contact lenses, you should remove them prior to administering Xiidra eye drops. After using the drops, wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting your contact lenses.
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep the single-dose containers in the foil pouch until you are ready to use it.
Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
What to do if you miss a dose of Xiidra
Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
If you have any concerns or questions about missed doses, ask your pharmacist, doctor, or caregiver for guidance.
Xiidra contraindications
This medicine is generally considered safe for most people. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns.
If you have a history of hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to Xiidra or any of its ingredients, you should avoid using this medication.
Xiidra warnings
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.
The safety and effectiveness of Xiidra in children have not been well-established. Xiidra is not recommended for children under 17 years old.
Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should discuss the use of Xiidra with their healthcare provider.
Consult your healthcare provider for medical advice before using Xiidra, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking other medication. They will closely monitor your progress and advise you on appropriate usage.
Xiidra interactions
Xiidra has not been reported to have significant interactions with many medications. However, to be on the safe side, avoid using other eye drops or artificial tears within 15 minutes of applying Xiidra since they may dilute the effects.
Always inform your healthcare provider about any prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements you are currently using to prevent any unforeseen interactions.
Xiidra side effects
Like other prescription eye drop medications, Xiidra may cause side effects. Some individuals may not experience any side effects, while others may experience mild to severe reactions.
Serious side effects
Severe eye swelling or irritation
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, itching, swelling of the face or throat, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing
Less serious side effects
Discomfort
Eye irritation
Blurred vision
Headache
Increased tearing
Redness in the eyes
Change in taste
Mild side effects usually subside on their own as the body adjusts to the medication. While Xiidra is effective for symptom relief, it’s important to watch for serious side effects that may require medical attention. RELATED: Xiidra alternatives
Sources:
Dry eye syndrome, StatPearls (2023)
Highlights of prescribing information, Food and Drug Administration (2020)
Lifitegrast: a novel drug for patients with dry eye disease, Therapeutic Advances in Ophthalmology (2019)
Contact lens wearer and suffering from dry eye symptoms?, Novartis (2022)
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