Question 1

What is Xiidra?

Accepted Answer

Xiidra contains the active ingredient lifitegrast, which is a lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1) antagonist. This medication works by blocking the interaction between specific proteins on the surface of cells to help decrease inflammation.

By interfering with these pathways, the medication helps manage the biological processes associated with ocular surface conditions. It is designed to provide relief from irritation and discomfort on the surface of the eye.

Question 2

What is Xiidra used for?

Accepted Answer

Xiidra is used to treat dry eye disease.

Question 3

How does Xiidra work?

Accepted Answer

How Xiidra Works

Xiidra belongs to a class of medications called lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1) antagonists. It is specifically designed to treat the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease by targeting inflammation on the surface of the eye.

The medication works by interfering with the interaction between two specific proteins:

LFA-1: A protein found on the surface of white blood cells (lymphocytes).

ICAM-1: A protein that is often found in higher amounts in the eye tissues of people with dry eye disease.

When these two proteins interact, they contribute to an inflammatory cycle that leads to the symptoms of dry eye, such as stinging, burning, or redness. Xiidra binds to LFA-1, which prevents it from connecting with ICAM-1. By blocking this interaction, the medication helps to reduce inflammation and improve the health of the eye surface.

Although the exact mechanism is not fully established, researchers believe that by inhibiting this protein interaction, Xiidra prevents inflammatory cells from sticking to the eye tissue and releasing chemicals that cause further irritation.

Question 4

What are the active ingredients in Xiidra?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredient in Xiidra is lifitegrast .

Question 5

What are the side effects of Xiidra?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of Xiidra may include:

eye irritation

blurred vision

unusual taste

Always consult with a healthcare professional about potential side effects.

Question 6

What drug class is Xiidra?

Accepted Answer

Xiidra belongs to the LFA-1 antagonist drug class.

Question 7

What is the dosage of Xiidra and how do I take it?

Accepted Answer

How to Use Xiidra

Xiidra is typically used as one drop in each eye twice a day, approximately 12 hours apart. It is important to follow the instructions provided by a healthcare professional and use the medication exactly as directed.

Administration Steps

Wash your hands thoroughly before using the eye drops.

Remove contact lenses before applying the medication.

Open the single-use container immediately before use.

Tilt your head back and pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket.

Hold the container over the eye and squeeze one drop into the pocket. Avoid letting the tip of the container touch your eye, eyelashes, or any other surface.

Close your eye for a minute and apply gentle pressure to the inside corner of the eye to keep the liquid from draining.

Repeat these steps for the other eye if directed.

Important Instructions

Each single-use container is intended for one dose in both eyes. Discard the container and any remaining liquid immediately after use. If you wear contact lenses, wait at least 15 minutes after applying the drops before reinserting them.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose and use the next one at your regularly scheduled time. Do not use extra drops to make up for a missed dose.

Question 8

Is Xiidra safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Pregnancy

It is currently unknown if Xiidra (lifitegrast) can cause harm to an unborn baby. There have not been enough well-controlled studies in humans to determine the specific risks of using this medication during pregnancy.

In animal studies, no significant harm was observed in the offspring of animals given lifitegrast at doses much higher than the standard human dose. However, animal studies do not always predict how a human will respond. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the potential benefits and risks with your healthcare provider.

Breastfeeding

It is not known whether lifitegrast passes into human breast milk or if it could affect a nursing infant. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution is advised when using this medication while nursing.

When considering the use of Xiidra while breastfeeding, you and your doctor should evaluate:

The mother's clinical need for the medication.

The health and developmental benefits of breastfeeding for the child.

Any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from the drug.

Question 9

What forms and strengths does Xiidra come in?

Accepted Answer

Dosage Forms

Xiidra (lifitegrast) is available as a sterile ophthalmic solution. It is supplied in a 5% concentration.

Packaging Information

The medication is provided in individual, single-use containers. Key details regarding its packaging include:

Single-use containers: Each container holds enough liquid for one dose (one drop in each eye).

Foil pouches: The containers are stored inside foil pouches to protect the solution from light.

Disposal: Because the containers do not contain preservatives, any leftover solution must be discarded immediately after a single use.

Question 10

What is the FDA approval status of Xiidra?

Accepted Answer

FDA Approval and Indication

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Xiidra (lifitegrast ophthalmic solution) 5% in July 2016. It is indicated for the treatment of both the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease in adult patients.

Regulatory History and Safety Monitoring

Xiidra was the first drug in a new class of medications known as lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1) antagonists to receive FDA approval. Since its initial approval, the FDA has continued to monitor its safety profile through the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS).

In 2020, the FDA evaluated a potential safety signal regarding reduced visual acuity associated with the use of Xiidra. After a thorough review of available data, the FDA concluded that no regulatory action was necessary at that time, though the agency continues to monitor the medication for new safety information.

Boxed Warnings and Restrictions

Xiidra does not currently carry any FDA boxed warnings, which are the most serious warnings issued by the agency. There is no Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) required for this medication, and it is not classified as a controlled substance.

Question 11

What should I know about Xiidra and cost?

Accepted Answer

Factors Affecting Cost

The price you pay for Xiidra can vary significantly based on several factors:

Insurance Coverage: Most commercial insurance plans cover Xiidra, but your specific copay or coinsurance will depend on your plan's formulary. Medicare and Medicaid coverage may also vary.

Pharmacy Choice: Prices can differ between retail pharmacies, mail-order services, and specialty pharmacies.

Generic Availability: Currently, there is no generic version of lifitegrast available. Brand-name medications typically cost more than generics.

Financial Assistance

Patients may be able to reduce their out-of-pocket expenses through various programs:

Manufacturer Savings Cards: The drug manufacturer often provides savings cards for patients with commercial insurance that can lower copays to a specific amount.

Patient Assistance Programs: Some programs offer the medication at low or no cost to individuals who meet specific income requirements and do not have insurance coverage.

It is recommended to check with your insurance provider and pharmacist to determine the exact cost for your prescription.

Xiidra

Medication Quick Facts

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What It's Used For

How It Works

Side Effects

Warnings & Precautions

Dosage & How to Take

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Forms & Strengths

FDA / Regulatory Status

Price Information

FAQ

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