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Lifitegrast is a prescription eye drop used to treat the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease. It is an ophthalmic solution sold under the medicine name Xiidra. Lifitegrast works on inflammation linked to dry eye rather than acting like a simple lubricating drop. It is used on a regular schedule as prescribed by an eye care professional.
read more about lifitegrast ...Lifitegrast blocks an interaction between lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1, or LFA-1, and intercellular adhesion molecule-1, or ICAM-1. That interaction is involved in T-cell activity and inflammation on the eye surface. By reducing this inflammatory signaling, lifitegrast can help improve dry eye signs and symptoms over time. It does not numb the eye or replace the tear film like artificial tears.
Lifitegrast is prescribed for dry eye disease when inflammation is part of the problem. Patients can have burning, stinging, grittiness, redness, tearing, or fluctuating vision related to tear film trouble. An eye doctor can recommend it when symptoms and exam findings fit dry eye disease. Other treatments, such as artificial tears, lid care, or cyclosporine, can also be part of a dry eye plan.
Lifitegrast is supplied in single-use containers and is placed directly into the eyes as directed. Contact lenses should be removed before use, and lenses can be reinserted after the waiting time listed on the prescription label. Patients should avoid touching the container tip to the eye, eyelids, lashes, or skin. Each single-use container should be thrown away after use.
Common side effects can include eye irritation, burning, stinging, blurred vision, and an unusual taste in the mouth. Some patients can also have reduced visual acuity or eye discomfort after dosing. Allergic reactions are uncommon but possible, so swelling, rash, breathing trouble, or severe eye irritation needs prompt medical attention. Patients should follow the prescriber's directions and report symptoms that worsen or do not improve.
Yes, Xiidra is the medicine name commonly associated with lifitegrast ophthalmic solution. Lifitegrast is the active ingredient used to treat signs and symptoms of dry eye disease.
No, lifitegrast is not an artificial tear. It targets inflammation linked to dry eye disease, while artificial tears mainly lubricate the eye surface.
Response time varies from person to person. Some patients notice symptom changes within weeks, while others need longer use and follow-up before the doctor can judge the response.
Contact lenses should be removed before using lifitegrast. Follow the product directions or the prescriber's instructions on when lenses can be placed back in the eyes.
XIIDRA Lifitegrast Solution/Drops. DailyMed. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=8589d376-ac10-4ddb-9c53-2e0c8d5675c4. Date Accessed June 3, 2026.
Lifitegrast Ophthalmic. MedlinePlus Drug Information. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a616039.html. Date Accessed June 3, 2026.
Lifitegrast Ophthalmic Route. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/lifitegrast-ophthalmic-route/description/drg-20312356. Date Accessed June 3, 2026.
Lifitegrast Ophthalmic Solution 5% (Xiidra) for Dry Eye Disease. American Family Physician. https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0715/p119.html. Date Accessed June 3, 2026.
Real-World Experience with Lifitegrast Ophthalmic Solution. PubMed Central. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7953885/. Date Accessed June 3, 2026.