Xiidra is a breakthrough prescription eye drop designed to relieve the discomfort of dry eye disease. By targeting inflammation directly, it supports better eye health and enhances comfort. Find a top eye care provider listed with Specialty Vision to learn more about Xiidra and how it can benefit you.
Dry eye is a common condition that can cause persistent discomfort, irritation, and blurry vision. Xiidra is an FDA-approved prescription eye drop that targets inflammation on the eye’s surface, directly addressing a primary cause of dry eye disease to offer lasting relief and improve quality of life.
Xiidra is a prescription medication specifically developed to treat both the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease. It works differently from over-the-counter artificial tears by targeting underlying inflammation at its source.
Xiidra is packaged in single-use vials, with each vial containing a precise dose for one application to both eyes. This sterile, preservative-free packaging reduces the risk of contamination and ensures you receive the correct amount of medication every time.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Xiidra in July 2016 as a prescription-only medication for dry eye disease. It is a targeted therapy for patients who have not found sufficient relief from artificial tears or other first-line treatments.
The active ingredient in Xiidra is lifitegrast, a molecule classified as a lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1) antagonist. This targeted approach helps address the underlying inflammatory processes that contribute to many dry eye symptoms.
It is important to understand that Xiidra is not simply a lubricating eye drop. While artificial tears provide temporary moisture to the eye's surface, Xiidra is a therapeutic treatment that works to break the cycle of inflammation that causes and perpetuates dry eye symptoms.
Xiidra’s primary mode of action is to interrupt the cycle of inflammation that contributes to dry eye disease. By calming this inflammation, it helps restore normal tear function and promotes the healing of the ocular surface.
The active ingredient, lifitegrast, binds to a protein called LFA-1 on the surface of immune cells (T-cells). This action blocks the T-cells from sticking to the eye's surface and releasing inflammatory signals (cytokines) that cause irritation and damage.
By reducing inflammation, Xiidra helps the glands around your eyes, such as the lacrimal glands, work more effectively. This leads to an improvement in the quality and quantity of your natural tears, providing more stable and lasting relief from dryness.
With less inflammation, the surface of your eye (the cornea and conjunctiva) can heal and maintain better health. This creates a more stable tear film that protects and lubricates your eyes throughout the day, leading to improved comfort and vision clarity.
Xiidra is designed for adults who experience persistent dry eye symptoms that are not adequately managed with over-the-counter remedies. Your eye care provider can determine if Xiidra is the right choice for your specific situation.
Xiidra is appropriate for adults with ongoing symptoms like dryness, burning, stinging, or a gritty feeling in their eyes. It is particularly helpful for those whose symptoms persist despite the regular use of artificial tears.
People who wear contact lenses can use Xiidra. However, lenses must be removed before applying the drops and can be safely reinserted 15 minutes after application to avoid irritation or lens clouding.
Xiidra should not be used if you have an active eye infection, such as bacterial or viral conjunctivitis. Any existing infection should be fully treated and resolved before starting Xiidra to avoid worsening the condition.
Those with autoimmune conditions that affect the eye surface, such as Sjögren’s syndrome or rheumatoid arthritis, may benefit from Xiidra's anti-inflammatory action. Treatment for these patients requires close monitoring by an eye care professional.
Proper application of Xiidra is essential for achieving the best results and ensuring safety. Following the correct technique and schedule helps the medication work as effectively as possible.
Xiidra should be applied twice each day, approximately 12 hours apart. Many people find it helpful to incorporate this into their morning and evening routines to ensure consistent use.
Proper application ensures the medication is effective and safe. Follow these steps for each dose:
Discard each vial immediately after use, even if some solution remains inside. Reusing vials increases the risk of contamination, which can lead to eye infections.
Store unopened vials in their original foil pouch at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Do not freeze Xiidra or leave it in extreme temperatures, such as in a hot car.
Like all medications, Xiidra can cause side effects, though most are mild and temporary. It is important to know what to expect and when to contact your eye care provider.
The most common side effect is a brief stinging or burning sensation upon instillation. This feeling typically lasts only a few seconds and often becomes less noticeable with continued use as your eyes adjust to the medication.
Some people notice an unusual salty, bitter, or metallic taste in their mouth minutes after using Xiidra. This is harmless and occurs because the drops can drain through the tear ducts into the back of your throat.
You might experience brief blurred vision immediately after applying the drops. Blinking several times usually helps clear your vision within a minute or two. Avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision is clear.
Mild eye redness may occur, especially when first starting treatment. This usually improves on its own. If redness persists for more than a few days or worsens, contact your eye care provider.
Although rare, some people may develop an allergic reaction to Xiidra. Signs include severe eyelid swelling, intense itching, rash, or significant redness. Contact your eye care provider immediately if you experience these symptoms.
Don't let dry eye symptoms disrupt your daily life. Contact a top optometrist or ophthalmologist today to discuss how Xiidra could offer you relief. Schedule your appointment now!
Understanding the financial aspects of Xiidra can help you plan for this important investment in your eye health. Costs can vary significantly based on your insurance plan and eligibility for savings programs.
Many commercial insurance plans cover Xiidra, but your specific coverage, co-pay, and any prior authorization requirements will depend on your policy. Some plans may require you to try other treatments, like Restasis, before approving Xiidra.
The manufacturer of Xiidra offers savings programs and coupons that can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Ask your eye care provider or pharmacist about these programs to see if you are eligible.
While Xiidra may have a higher upfront cost than over-the-counter artificial tears, many patients find that controlling the underlying inflammation reduces their need for other treatments. This can make the overall cost of managing dry eye more reasonable over time.
If dry eye symptoms are affecting your comfort, vision, or daily activities, schedule a consultation with an eye care professional. With a proper diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan that may include Xiidra, many patients experience significant and lasting relief.
Don't let dry eye symptoms disrupt your daily life. Contact a top optometrist or ophthalmologist today to discuss how Xiidra could offer you relief. Schedule your appointment now!
Xiidra provides targeted relief for dry eye symptoms by addressing inflammation. Find a top optometrist or ophthalmologist near you today!
