Can Xiidra make dry eyes worse?
Xiidra (lifitegrast ophthalmic) should not make dry eyes worse. If you notice a worsening of dry eyes during treatment with Xiidra, it is important to talk to your doctor about why this may be occurring and whether to try a different treatment.
While Xiidra is unlikely to worsen dry eyes, it can cause related side effects. The most common side effects of Xiidra occur directly after the solution is administered and include:
- Pain
- Irritation
- Itching
- Redness in the eyes
These reactions generally resolve quickly.
Less commonly, Xiidra may cause:
- Vision changes
- Blurred vision
- An altered sense of taste
- Excessive tearing of the eyes
- Headaches
Clinical studies have shown improvement in dry eye symptoms after using Xiidra drops for 12 weeks. However, Xiidra may not work for everyone, and it will not cure dry eye disease.
Different people may experience more or less significant reductions in dry eye symptoms while using Xiidra.
References
- 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].
- Patel J, Franko J. Lifitegrast Ophthalmic Solution 5% (Xiidra) for Dry Eye Disease. Am Fam Physician. 2018;98(2):119-120. https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0715/p119.html.
Read next
Xiidra vs. Restasis: Which is better for dry eye?
Xiidra (lifitegrast) and Restasis (cyclosporine) are prescription eye drops used to treat dry eye disease, but they work differently and have distinct characteristics. Continue reading
Can Restasis and Xiidra be used together?
Only use Xiidra and Restasis together if your doctor has recommended this treatment. Both drugs are used to treat dry eye disease and inflammation and you would not usually need to combine them. Both Xiidra and Restasis can be linked with similar side effects such as eye burning, stinging and irritation. Continue reading
How much is Xiidra without insurance?
Xiidra (lifitegrast 5%) costs around $748 for a 30-day prescription if you are paying cash using an online coupon. Xiidra is an eye drop used for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease. Continue reading
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Drug information
- Xiidra Information for Consumers
- Xiidra prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Xiidra (detailed)
Related support groups
- Xiidra (13 questions, 21 members)