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Xiidra vs. Restasis: Which is better for dry eye?

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on May 27, 2024.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

Xiidra (lifitegrast) and Restasis (cyclosporine) are prescription eye drops used to treat dry eye disease, but they work differently and have distinct characteristics.

Xiidra:

Restasis:

Key Differences:

Usage Note:

Bottom Line:

Xiidra may offer quicker relief for some, but Restasis is also effective over a longer period. Discuss with your doctor to determine which is better suited for you.

References
  • Xiidra [package insert]. Novartis Pharmaceuticals. East Hanover, NJ. Updated June 2020. https://www.novartis.us/sites/www.novartis.us/files/xiidra.pdf
  • Xiidra.com. https://www.xiidra.com/what-is-xiidra/
  • Restasis.com. https://www.restasis.com/about-restasis/how-it-works
  • Restasis [package insert]. Irvine, California: Allergan, 2017. https://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/restasis_pi.pdf
  • Pflugfelder SC, de Paiva CS. The Pathophysiology of Dry Eye Disease: What We Know and Future Directions for Research. Ophthalmology. 2017;124(11S):S4–S13. doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2017.07.010

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Is there a generic for Restasis eye drops?

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