Lifitegrast Ophthalmic Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Feb 25, 2024.

Applies to lifitegrast ophthalmic: ophthalmic solution.

Serious side effects

Along with its needed effects, lifitegrast ophthalmic may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking lifitegrast ophthalmic:

More common side effects

• changes in vision
• eye irritation or discomfort

Less common side effects

• blurred vision
• redness of the white part of the eyes or inside of the eyelids

Other side effects

Some side effects of lifitegrast ophthalmic may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

• change in taste
• loss of taste

Less common side effects

• cough
• discomfort or itching of the eyes
• drainage from the eyes
• fever
• headache
• pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones
• stuffy or runny nose
• tightness of the chest
• troubled breathing
• watering of the eyes

For healthcare professionals

Applies to lifitegrast ophthalmic: ophthalmic solution.

General adverse events

The most commonly reported side effects included instillation site irritation, dysgeusia, reduced visual acuity, and eye pain.^[Ref]

Ocular

• Very common (10% or more): Reduced visual acuity (up to 25%), eye irritation (up to 18%), eye pain (up to 12%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Conjunctival hyperemia, eye discharge, eye discomfort, eye pruritus, increased lacrimation^[Ref]

Local

• Very common (10% or more): Instillation site irritation (up to 25%), instillation site reactions (up to 12%)
• Frequency not reported: Instillation site lacrimation, instillation site pain, instillation site pruritus^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Very common (10% or more): Dysgeusia (up to 25%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Blurred vision, headache
• Frequency not reported: Tension headache^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Common (1% to 10%): Sinusitis
• Postmarketing reports: Bronchospasm, dyspnea, respiratory distress^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Frequency not reported: Hypersensitivity
• Postmarketing reports: Anaphylactic reaction, angioedema^[Ref]

Immunologic

• Postmarketing reports: Allergic conjunctivitis, allergic dermatitis, asthma, pharyngeal edema, type IV hypersensitivity reaction^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Postmarketing reports: Swollen tongue^[Ref]

Frequently asked questions

• How much is Xiidra without insurance?
• How is Xiidra packaged at the pharmacy?
• How does Xiidra differ from OTC dry eye treatments?
• Can I use other eye drops with Xiidra?
• How long does it take for Xiidra to work?

Further information

Lifitegrast ophthalmic side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer