amplifyeyecare-logo-base2-icon

Xiidra vs Restasis: Effectiveness, Cost & Safety

In this article, we will compare Xiidra vs Restasis, the two prescription medications designed to treat the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease.

Find an amplify doctor near you
Xiidra vs Restasis: Effectiveness, Cost & Safety Optometrist
Table of Contents

Understanding Xiidra and Restasis

In the landscape of eye care, particularly in managing dry eye disease (DED), two prescription medications stand out for their effectiveness and reliability: Xiidra and Restasis. Both are specifically formulated to treat the signs and symptoms associated with dry eye, providing relief to millions of sufferers across the United States, including many within the Amplify EyeCare network.

What is Xiidra?

Xiidra (lifitegrast ophthalmic solution) is a relatively recent addition to the arsenal against dry eye disease, having been approved by the FDA in 2016. It's designed for the treatment of both the signs and symptoms of dry eye, offering a new mechanism of action as it targets the inflammation associated with the condition. By blocking a specific protein interaction involved in the inflammatory process, Xiidra helps reduce irritation and discomfort, leading to improved tear production.

What is Restasis?

Restasis (cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion) has been a cornerstone in the treatment of dry eye disease since its FDA approval in 2003. It works differently from Xiidra by increasing tear production itself, which may be reduced due to inflammation related to chronic dry eye. Restasis is an immunosuppressive agent that helps increase the eye's natural ability to produce tears, which is essential for maintaining moisture on the surface of the eye and providing relief from the burning and itching sensations associated with dry eye disease.

Amplify EyeCare

Mechanism of Action

How Xiidra Works

Xiidra operates at the cellular level, specifically targeting a part of the immune response believed to play a significant role in dry eye disease. The active ingredient in Xiidra, lifitegrast, is a lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1) antagonist. It works by inhibiting the interaction between LFA-1 and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). This interaction is crucial in the inflammatory process that contributes to the symptoms of dry eye. By blocking this interaction, Xiidra can reduce inflammation on the ocular surface, thereby reducing symptoms such as irritation, discomfort, and blurred vision. The effectiveness of Xiidra can begin to be seen in as little as two weeks for some patients, offering a rapid path to symptom relief.

How Restasis Works

Restasis, on the other hand, takes a broader approach to tackling dry eye disease by enhancing the eye's ability to produce tears. Its active ingredient, cyclosporine, is an immunosuppressive agent that works by decreasing inflammation in the eye that can lead to dry eye syndrome. Unlike Xiidra, which blocks a specific step in the inflammatory process, Restasis helps increase tear production over time by suppressing the immune cells responsible for the inflammation. Patients using Restasis may start to see improvement in tear production and symptom relief within three to six months of consistent use.

Understanding Their Roles in Treating Dry Eye

While both treatments are effective, their differences in mechanism of action mean they can suit different types of dry eye disease or different patient preferences. Xiidra's fast-acting nature may appeal to those seeking quicker symptom relief, whereas Restasis' approach to increasing natural tear production might be preferable for patients looking for a long-term solution to tear deficiency.

Effectiveness in Treating Dry Eye

Effectiveness in Treating Dry Eye

Both medications have undergone extensive clinical trials to demonstrate their efficacy in managing the symptoms and underlying causes of dry eye disease.

Clinical Trials and Studies

  • Xiidra: In multiple phase 3 clinical trials, Xiidra demonstrated significant improvement in both the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease compared to placebo. Patients reported relief from eye irritation, burning, and blurred vision. Notably, some participants experienced symptom improvement as early as two weeks into the treatment, with continued progress over time.
  • Restasis: Clinical studies supporting the approval of Restasis showed that consistent use leads to an increase in natural tear production in patients with dry eye disease. Improvement in symptoms, including dryness and eye burning, was generally observed within three to six months of treatment. Restasis has been effective in a broad range of patients, including those with conditions that significantly reduce tear production.

Patient Feedback on Xiidra vs. Restasis

Surveys and patient feedback show how effective Xiidra and Restasis are in the real world. A survey mentioned indicates that a larger number of patients using Xiidra saw significant symptom improvement compared to those on Restasis. Still, both treatments have high satisfaction rates, especially among those who found over-the-counter options lacking.

Understanding the Differences

Though direct comparisons between Xiidra and Restasis in studies are rare, the information we have suggests both are good at treating dry eye disease, but they work differently. Xiidra works fast to lessen inflammation and symptoms, which is great for those looking for immediate relief. Restasis, however, slowly increases the eye's own tear production, providing a lasting solution for chronic dry eye.

Side Effects and Risks of Xiidra and Restasis

Side Effects and Risks of Xiidra and Restasis

When considering treatment options for dry eye disease with Xiidra and Restasis, understanding the potential side effects and risks is essential. Both medications are generally well-tolerated, but like all treatments, they can cause side effects in some individuals.

Common Side Effects

  • Xiidra: The most frequently reported side effects of Xiidra include eye irritation, blurred vision, and an unusual taste in the mouth. Some patients also report headaches and sinus infections. These side effects are typically mild and often resolve on their own as the body adjusts to the medication.
  • Restasis: Common side effects of Restasis include burning or stinging upon application, eye redness, and the sensation of something being in the eye. Like Xiidra, these side effects are generally mild and temporary, diminishing with continued use of the medication.

Rare but Serious Side Effects

While rare, there are more serious side effects associated with both Xiidra and Restasis that patients should be aware of:

  • Xiidra: In very rare cases, Xiidra can cause severe allergic reactions. Signs of an allergic reaction include swelling around the eyes or face, difficulty breathing, and severe itching or hives. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
  • Restasis: Similarly, Restasis has been linked to an increased risk of eye infections. Patients using Restasis should monitor for signs of infection, such as increased eye redness, pain, or discharge. Any suspicion of an infection warrants prompt evaluation by an eye care professional.

Long-term Use Considerations

Long-term use of any medication requires consideration of its sustained impact on health. Both Xiidra and Restasis have been studied in long-term scenarios and are considered safe for extended use under the guidance of an eye care professional. Regular follow-ups with an eye care provider are recommended to monitor the ongoing effectiveness of the treatment and to check for any adverse effects.

Navigating Side Effects

Patients experiencing side effects from Xiidra or Restasis, several strategies can help mitigate discomfort, including:

  • Applying the drops at a consistent time each day to spread out any potential side effects.
  • Using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to alleviate irritation, following your eye care professional’s recommendations regarding timing and compatibility with your prescription drops.
  • Discussing any persistent or bothersome side effects with your eye care provider, who may adjust your treatment plan or suggest alternative therapies.
Find an amplify doctor near you
Dosage of Xiidra vs Restasis

Dosage of Xiidra vs Restasis

Proper dosage and administration are crucial for the effectiveness of any medication, including Xiidra and Restasis, in treating dry eye disease. Understanding how to correctly use these treatments ensures not only their effectiveness but also minimizes potential side effects. At Amplify EyeCare, we emphasize patient education on these aspects to ensure our patients achieve the best possible results from their treatment.

Xiidra Dosage

Xiidra is prescribed as one drop in each eye, administered twice a day, approximately 12 hours apart. It comes in single-use containers, ensuring each dose is sterile. Patients are advised to:

Restasis Dosage

Restasis is similarly administered as one drop in each eye, twice a day, about 12 hours apart. Restasis also comes in single-use vials, with a multi-dose option available for those who prefer it. The administration steps are similar to those for Xiidra:

Important Considerations

  • Patients who wear contact lenses should remove them before administering either medication and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
  • If using other eye drops or ointments, wait at least 5 minutes between applying each product to ensure proper absorption and effectiveness.
  • Consistency is key; using Xiidra and Restasis as prescribed, without skipping doses, maximizes their benefits.
  • Always follow the specific instructions provided by your eye care professional, as individual treatment plans may vary based on personal health needs.

Cost Comparison

The cost of Xiidra and Restasis can vary significantly based on several factors, including insurance coverage, pharmacy location, and available manufacturer discounts or patient assistance programs. Both medications are brand-name drugs, with Restasis now having a generic equivalent, cyclosporine, which can offer a more cost-effective option for some patients.

  • Xiidra: Without insurance, the cost for a month's supply of Xiidra can range significantly. Patients are encouraged to explore savings programs offered by the manufacturer, which can substantially reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
  • Restasis: The cost for Restasis also varies, with the generic version typically being less expensive. Similar to Xiidra, Restasis offers patient assistance and savings programs to help mitigate costs.

Insurance Coverage and Accessibility

Most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover Xiidra and Restasis. However, coverage levels and out-of-pocket costs can differ. Some plans may require prior authorization or trial of other treatments before covering these medications. It's important for patients to check their specific insurance benefits and any requirements for coverage of dry eye treatments.

Patient Assistance Programs

Both Xiidra and Restasis manufacturers offer patient assistance programs to eligible individuals, providing the medication at little to no cost. These programs are designed for patients without insurance coverage or those with financial hardships. Details and eligibility requirements can be found on the manufacturers' websites or by contacting patient support services.

Strategies for Managing Costs

  1. Insurance Review: Thoroughly review your insurance plan's formulary to understand coverage specifics for Xiidra, Restasis, and their generic equivalents.
  2. Manufacturer Savings Programs: Enroll in available savings or rebate programs offered by the manufacturers of Xiidra and Restasis.
  3. Generic Options: Consider the generic version of Restasis (cyclosporine) for potential savings.
  4. Pharmacy Shopping: Compare prices at different pharmacies, including online options, to find the best price for your prescription.
Effectiveness in Treating Dry Eye
Side Effects and Risks of Xiidra and Restasis

Can I Use Xiidra and Restasis Together?

Many people wonder if they can use Xiidra and Restasis at the same time to treat dry eye disease. This is because combining them may offer a better way to manage the condition.

Combining Xiidra and Restasis: The Potential Benefits

Xiidra and Restasis treat dry eye in different ways. Xiidra helps by lowering inflammation, blocking certain proteins that cause this inflammation. On the other hand, Restasis aids in boosting your eye's ability to make tears naturally over time. When used together, these treatments could more fully tackle the two main issues of dry eye: inflammation and tear production, than using just one of them.

Clinical Evidence and Recommendations

The current medical research and guidelines provide little direct evidence on using Xiidra and Restasis together for dry eye disease. Yet, stories from doctors and patients hint that in some tough or severe dry eye cases, combining these treatments can help relieve symptoms and make life better for those affected.

Considerations and Cautions

  • Talk to Your Eye Doctor First: Before deciding to use Xiidra and Restasis together, it's vital to consult with your eye care professional. They'll look at your health history, how severe your symptoms are, and the chance of side effects to decide what's best for you.
  • Watch Out for Side Effects: Patients using both treatments should be watched closely for any negative side effects. Mixing these medications might raise the risk of side effects.
  • Think About the Cost: Using Xiidra and Restasis at the same time can greatly increase the cost of treating dry eye. It's important to check what your insurance covers and look into any programs that can help with the costs.
Dry Eye optometry and eye care
Amplify EyeCare and Optometrists

Protect Your vision with the Best - Find an Amplify EyeCare Specialist Today

Amplify EyeCare is a team of a passionate and experienced optometrists practicing eye care at the cutting edge of technology and vision science. We are growing with new locations coming across the US.
Visit a Dry Eye eye center at an Amplify EyeCare practice near you:

Common Questions

Restasis and Xiidra are both prescription eye drops used to treat dry eye syndrome. The effectiveness of each medication can vary depending on the individual. While Restasis works by suppressing inflammation in the tear glands, Xiidra targets a specific type of inflammation that is believed to play a role in dry eye syndrome. Both medications have been shown to improve symptoms of dry eye, but our eye doctor can help determine which medication may be better for your specific case.
People with a history of allergic reactions to any ingredients in Xiidra should not use the medication. Additionally, people who are taking certain medications or have certain medical conditions may not be able to use Xiidra safely. It is important to discuss your medical history and any medications you are taking with your doctor before starting any new medication.
The recommended duration of treatment with Xiidra is twice daily use for up to 12 weeks. However, the duration of treatment may be adjusted based on the individual's response and symptoms.
Xiidra is not a steroid. It is a prescription eye drop that works by blocking a type of inflammation associated with dry eye syndrome.
While rare, there have been reports of Xiidra causing vision changes, including blurry vision and visual disturbances. If you experience any vision changes while using Xiidra, it is important to contact our optometrist immediately.
Some of the serious side effects associated with Xiidra include severe allergic reactions, eye infections, and increased eye pressure. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.
Xiidra can be expensive, with prices varying depending on insurance coverage and other factors. However, there may be cost-saving options available, such as prescription discount cards or manufacturer coupons.
Some people may experience side effects while using Xiidra, such as eye irritation, discomfort, or itching. Additionally, Xiidra may not work for everyone or may require several weeks of consistent use to see improvements in symptoms.
Like any medication, there are potential risks associated with using Xiidra. However, when used as directed under the supervision of our qualified optometrist, Xiidra is generally considered safe for most people.
Xiidra vs Restasis: Effectiveness, Cost & Safety
Amplify EyeCare cartoon

Don't Suffer in Silence: Talk to Your Eye Doctor About Your Dry Eye Symptoms Today

If you're struggling with dry eye syndrome, it's important to talk to our eye doctor about your treatment options. Xiidra and Restasis are two popular prescription medications that can be effective at managing dry eye symptoms, but they have different pros and cons depending on your individual needs and preferences. By understanding the differences between these two medications, you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Remember, this article is meant to be informative and educational, and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice from our qualified eye doctor. If you have any questions or concerns about Xiidra, Restasis, or other treatments for dry eye syndrome, you can reach out to your nearest Amplify EyeCare practice either via a call or in-person visit. Our team of eye care professionals is ready and equipped to provide you with the care you need.

Contact Us To Amplify Your EyeCare

starchevron-downarrow-uparrow-right