Xiidra Side Effects

Generic name: lifitegrast ophthalmic

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Feb 25, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Xiidra Side Effects associated with lifitegrast ophthalmic. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Xiidra.

Applies to lifitegrast ophthalmic: ophthalmic solution.

Serious side effects of Xiidra

Along with its needed effects, lifitegrast ophthalmic (the active ingredient contained in Xiidra) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking lifitegrast ophthalmic:

More common side effects

• changes in vision
• eye irritation or discomfort

Less common side effects

• blurred vision
• redness of the white part of the eyes or inside of the eyelids

Other side effects of Xiidra

Some side effects of lifitegrast ophthalmic may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

• change in taste
• loss of taste

Less common side effects

• cough
• discomfort or itching of the eyes
• drainage from the eyes
• fever
• headache
• pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones
• stuffy or runny nose
• tightness of the chest
• troubled breathing
• watering of the eyes

For healthcare professionals

Applies to lifitegrast ophthalmic: ophthalmic solution.

General adverse events

The most commonly reported side effects included instillation site irritation, dysgeusia, reduced visual acuity, and eye pain.^[Ref]

Ocular

• Very common (10% or more): Reduced visual acuity (up to 25%), eye irritation (up to 18%), eye pain (up to 12%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Conjunctival hyperemia, eye discharge, eye discomfort, eye pruritus, increased lacrimation^[Ref]

Local

• Very common (10% or more): Instillation site irritation (up to 25%), instillation site reactions (up to 12%)
• Frequency not reported: Instillation site lacrimation, instillation site pain, instillation site pruritus^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Very common (10% or more): Dysgeusia (up to 25%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Blurred vision, headache
• Frequency not reported: Tension headache^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Common (1% to 10%): Sinusitis
• Postmarketing reports: Bronchospasm, dyspnea, respiratory distress^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Frequency not reported: Hypersensitivity
• Postmarketing reports: Anaphylactic reaction, angioedema^[Ref]

Immunologic

• Postmarketing reports: Allergic conjunctivitis, allergic dermatitis, asthma, pharyngeal edema, type IV hypersensitivity reaction^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Postmarketing reports: Swollen tongue^[Ref]

Frequently asked questions

• Xiidra vs. Restasis: Which is better for dry eye?
• Can Restasis and Xiidra be used together?
• How much is Xiidra without insurance?
• Can Xiidra make dry eyes worse?
• Can Xiidra eye drops cause diarrhea?
• How is Xiidra packaged at the pharmacy?
• Can Xiidra cause hair loss?
• Can you use Xiidra with punctal plugs?
• How does Xiidra differ from OTC dry eye treatments?

Further information

Xiidra side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer