How long does it take for Xiidra to work?
After you start using Xiidra (lifitegrast), it may be a few weeks before you notice an improvement in your dry eyes.
- In studies conducted by the manufacturer, some patients started to feel dry eye relief at 2 weeks. For some patients, it may take from 6 to 12 weeks to feel the full effects.
- By 12 weeks, your doctor can see if the medication is reducing your signs of dry eye with an eye exam.
- Not everyone will have dry eye relief with Xiidra.
How does Xiidra relieve dry eyes?
Xiidra is designed to target inflammation due to dry eyes. It works by blocking a protein on the surface of cells that can cause your eyes to not produce enough tears or produce tears that are not the right consistency. Xiidra is classified as a lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1) antagonist.
References
- Xiidra [package insert]. East Hanover, New Jersey: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, 2019. https://www.novartis.us/sites/www.novartis.us/files/xiidra.pdf
- Donnenfeld ED, Perry HD, Nattis AS, et al. Lifitegrast for the treatment of dry eye disease in adults. Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2017;18(14):1517–1524. doi:10.1080/14656566.2017.1372748
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
Related medical questions
- Can Xiidra make dry eyes worse?
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- How is Xiidra packaged at the pharmacy?
- Can you use Xiidra with punctal plugs?
- How does Xiidra differ from OTC dry eye treatments?
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- Does Xiidra cause headaches?
- Does Xiidra have preservatives in it?
Drug information
Related support groups
- Xiidra (13 questions, 21 members)
- Lifitegrast (5 questions, 3 members)