What is Xiidra?
Xiidra (lifitegrast 5%) can be described as an eyedrop solution utilised twice daily in each eye in order to treat symptoms and signs associated with dry eye disease (DED) in adults over 17 years old.
Xiidra is a drug that blocks an aforementioned protein, called lymphocyte-related antigen-1 (LFA-1) on the surface of leukocytes (a kind of blood cell), from binding to an adhesion molecule, ICAM-1. This could be overexpressed in the corneal or conjunctival tissues of people suffering from DED. The interaction between LFA-1 and ICAM-1 is linked to T-cell migration and activation, as well as the release of inflammation-related factors known as cytokines. By preventing this interaction, Xiidra can block the production of inflammatory cytokines, which can improve the symptoms associated with DED; however, the precise method of action in DED is not understood.
Xiidra was FDA-approved on July 11, 2016.
Warnings
No contraindications exist for the use of Xidra.
Follow the directions on the medicine label and on the label of your package. Inform your health care providers about your allergies, medical conditions, and any other medications you take.
Before you take this drug
Before using Xiidra, consult your physician to ensure that you:
- Are you using any other eye drops for your eyes?
- Wear contact lenses
- Are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or plan to be pregnant. It is not clear whether Xiidra could cause harm to your baby.
- If you are nursing or planning to, It isn't known whether Xiidra is absorbed into milk. Discuss with your physician the best method you can use to feed your child in the event that you use Xiidra.
Xiidra is not a product that has been approved for use by anyone less than 17 years of age.
Similar or related drugs
Restasis, Eysuvis, Cyosporine eye drops, Varenicline, Systane, Artificial Tears, and Cequa
How to take Xiidra?
Cleanse your hands prior to using the drops for your eyes.
- Turn your head slightly back and then pull your lower eyelids to create an eyelid pocket. Keep the dropper in front of your eye, with the tips towards the lower eyelid. Keep your eyes towards the sky and away from the dropper, and squeeze out the drop.
- Inject a drop of Xiidra into each eye twice each day (approximately 12 hours apart).
- You can close your eyes for about 2 or 3 minutes, keeping your head level and not blinking or squinting. Press your finger gently to the inside of your eye for around one minute, preventing the tears from draining the tear duct.
- At least 10 minutes prior to using any eye drop that your medical professional has advised you to use.
Don't touch the edge of the Xiidra eye dropper or put the dropper directly on your eyes. The dropper that is contaminated could cause an eye infection, which could cause serious vision issues.
Each bottle of Xiidra is meant for single-use only. Dispose of the container after you have put the drops into each eye, regardless of whether there's a little solution.Contact lenses are required if you use them. You must remove the lenses before placing Xiidra drops in your eyes. They can be reinserted 15 minutes later.Follow the exact instructions for Xiidra as provided by your doctor. Follow the instructions on the prescription label. Don't take this medicine in smaller or larger amounts or for a longer time than the recommended time.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Utilise the dose you missed when you remember. Do not take any missed doses if it's nearing the time for the next dose. Don't use any extra medicine to compensate for your missed dosage.
What happens if I overdose?
A dose of Xiidra isn't likely to pose a risk. You should seek medical attention in an emergency or contact the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 if you have accidentally swallowed the drug.
What should be avoided Xiidra?
Do not take any other eye medication unless you are advised to by your doctor. Follow your doctor's advice regarding drinks, food, or activities.
Side effects of Xiidra
Contact a medical professional immediately. Get medical attention immediately if you notice symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as asthmatic hives, breathing problems, and swelling on your lips, face, and tongue.
Stop using this medicine immediately and contact your doctor immediately. If you suffer from:
- Issues with vision
- Eye redness that is severe or irritates
Common Xiidra adverse effects could include:
- Blurred vision
- Eye discomfort;
- Eye irritation;
- Unusual or unpleasant taste on the tongue.
This isn't a complete list of possible side effects, and others could happen. Contact your doctor for advice regarding medical adverse effects. You can report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Interaction with other drugs
It is unlikely that other drugs can interfere with Xiidra. However, many medications can interact with each other. Be sure to inform your healthcare professionals about all medications you are taking, which include medications that are prescribed and available over the counter as well as vitamins and herbs.
