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Does Xiidra have preservatives in it?

Medically reviewed by Sally Chao, MD. Last updated on Aug 22, 2023.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Xiidra (lifitegrast ophthalmic) does not contain preservatives. Xiidra is packaged for one-time use in individual doses, eliminating the need for preservatives. However, many other eye drops sold in multi-dose packaging must contain preservatives to prevent bacteria from contaminating the solution once opened.

Frequent and prolonged use of eye drops that contain preservatives can cause eye allergies and irritation. Single-dose, preservative-free options, such as Xiidra, can benefit patients who require a long-term solution for dry eyes.

You will need a prescription from a doctor to use Xiidra. To take Xiidra, you will deliver one drop to each eye twice daily unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Preservative-free, prescription eye drops such as Xiidra may be more expensive than over-the-counter options that contain preservatives.

References
  1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Deputy Division Director Review: Xiidra (lifitegrast ophthalmic solution) 5%. October 5, 2015. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/nda/2016/208073Orig1s000SumR.pdf. [Accessed August 23, 2021].
  2. Pucker AD, Ng SM, Nichols JJ. Over the counter (OTC) artificial tear drops for dry eye syndrome. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016;2:CD009729. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD009729.pub2.
  3. American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). How to Treat Dry Eyes. Last reviewed July 22, 2021. Available at: https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2019/dry-eyes.html. [Accessed August 23, 2021].
  4. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). XIIDRA (lifitegrast ophthalmic solution) 5%, for topical ophthalmic use. June 2016. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/208073s000lbl.pdf. [Accessed August 23, 2021].

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