Can Xiidra cause hair loss?
Xiidra (lifitegrast ophthalmic) should not cause hair loss. There is no indication that hair loss is a potential side effect of using Xiidra.
If you do experience hair loss while using Xiidra, tell your doctor.
There are many potential reasons for hair loss. Concurrent symptoms of dry eyes and hair loss could potentially be related to certain autoimmune conditions, including Sjögren's syndrome, alopecia (frontal fibrosing alopecia, alopecia areata), lupus and others. Your doctor will be able to help you determine the cause.
Xiidra is a prescription ophthalmic solution, meaning it should be applied directly to your eyes. Side effects occur immediately after the eye drops are administered. Some side effects of Xiidra include:
- Irritation
- Itching
- Pain
- Redness in the eyes
References
- 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 24, 2021].
- U.S. National Library of Medicine M edlinePlus. Hair Loss. Last reviewed May 16, 2019. Available at: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003246.htm. [Accessed August 24, 2021].
- Furlan KC, Kakizaki P, Chartuni JC, Valente NY. Frontal fibrosing alopecia in association with Sjögren's syndrome: more than a simple coincidence. An Bras Dermatol. 2016;91(5 suppl 1):14-16. doi: 10.1590/abd1806-4841.20164526.
- Ergin C, Acar M, Kaya Akış H, Gönül M, Gürdal C. Ocular findings in alopecia areata. Int J Dermatol. 2015;54(11):1315-1318. doi : 10.1111/ijd.12897.
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Lupus: Symptoms. Last reviewed October 17, 2018. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/lupus/basics/symptoms.htm . [Accessed August 24, 2021].
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Drug information
- Xiidra Information for Consumers
- Xiidra Information for Healthcare Professionals (includes dosage details)
- Side Effects of Xiidra (detailed)
Related support groups
- Xiidra (12 questions, 19 members)
