Does Xiidra have preservatives in it?
Xiidra (lifitegrast ophthalmic) does not contain preservatives. Xiidra is packaged for one-time use in individual doses, eliminating the need for preservatives. However, many other eye drops sold in multi-dose packaging must contain preservatives to prevent bacteria from contaminating the solution once opened.
Frequent and prolonged use of eye drops that contain preservatives can cause eye allergies and irritation. Single-dose, preservative-free options, such as Xiidra, can benefit patients who require a long-term solution for dry eyes.
You will need a prescription from a doctor to use Xiidra. To take Xiidra, you will deliver one drop to each eye twice daily unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Preservative-free, prescription eye drops such as Xiidra may be more expensive than over-the-counter options that contain preservatives.
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].
- Pucker AD, Ng SM, Nichols JJ. Over the counter (OTC) artificial tear drops for dry eye syndrome. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016;2:CD009729. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD009729.pub2.
- American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). How to Treat Dry Eyes. Last reviewed July 22, 2021. Available at: https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2019/dry-eyes.html. [Accessed August 23, 2021].
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). XIIDRA (lifitegrast ophthalmic solution) 5%, for topical ophthalmic use. June 2016. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/208073s000lbl.pdf. [Accessed August 23, 2021].
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
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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)