Restasis vs. Xiidra

Chronic dry eye disease affects more than 16 million Americans and can cause discomfort, irritation, and vision problems. If not treated, this can cause eye irritation, scratches on the eye’s surface, open sores on the cornea, and vision problems.

Restasis and Xiidra are two common prescription treatments, but choosing between them can be difficult. Many patients wonder which one works better, which is more affordable, and which has fewer side effects.

This article breaks down the efficacy, cost, and side effects of Restasis vs. Xiidra. We’ll provide a clear, side-by-side comparison so you can determine which option is best for your needs.

Effectiveness of Restasis vs. Xiidra

There aren’t any direct studies comparing Restasis and Xiidra, but both have been proven effective in separate clinical trials.

Restasis’ Effectiveness

In a recent meta-analysis, experts compared seven different commercial formulations of cyclosporine A for treating dry eye disease, including Restasis. They found that Restasis was the most effective formulation for reducing symptom severity in dry eye patients.

However, other brands excelled in different measures. For example:

• • Zirun was best for increasing tear production
  • TJ Cyporin ranked first for tear stability
  • Clacier had the lowest rate of side effects

Another study compared the effectiveness and safety of cyclosporine A eye drops at 0.05% (Restasis) and 0.1% concentrations in patients with moderate to severe dry eye disease over six months. Both worked similarly, meaning the higher dose (0.1%) did not provide extra benefits over Restasis.

Additionally, Restasis improved three subjective symptoms more than the placebo:

• • Blurred vision
  • Reduced need for artificial tears
  • Physician’s overall assessment of improvement

Xiidra’s Effectiveness

A systemic review examined Xiidra’s effects on dry eye disease. They analyzed different measures, including:

• • Corneal staining scores (used to assess eye surface damage)
  • Eye discomfort and dryness scores
  • Tear break-up time (TBUT) (how long tears stay on the eye)
  • Ocular surface disease index (OSDI) (a common measure of DED severity)

Results showed that Xiidra is an effective treatment for dry eye disease, improving symptoms and eye health. While some mild side effects, like temporary eye irritation and taste changes, can occur, they are not severe for most users.

Another analysis looked at how well Xiidra works for people with moderate to severe dry eye disease. Overall, Xiidra was better than the placebo at improving both symptoms (dryness) and clinical signs (eye surface damage).

Researchers also found that those with more severe dry eye had a 70% to 111% higher chance of significant improvement with Xiidra compared to those who took the placebo.

Onset of Action of Restasis and Xiiidra

Xiidra usually works faster than Restasis for dry eyes.

You might start noticing results in about 14 days, though for some, it can take up to 12 weeks. In clinical trials, Xiidra eased dry eye symptoms by week 2 in two out of four studies, with all four studies showing improvements at weeks 6 and 12.

Restasis, on the other hand, takes longer. It may take up to 12 weeks to see a difference and as long as 6 months for full benefits.

Side Effects of Restasis and Xiidra

Restasis and Xiidra can both cause eye irritation, but their side effects differ slightly.

With Restasis, the most common side effect is temporary burning or stinging after use. Other possible reactions include:

• • redness
  • discharge
  • watery eyes
  • eye pain
  • itching
  • foreign body sensation
  • blurred vision

Xiidra may also cause eye irritation, discomfort, or blurred vision when applied. However, a distinct side effect with Xiidra is an unusual taste sensation, which some users notice after using the drops.

How Xiidra and Restasis Work for Dry Eyes

Xiidra and Restasis are both prescription eye drops that help with chronic dry eye, but they work in different ways.

Xiidra (lifitegrast 5%) targets inflammation in the eyes. It blocks a specific protein that causes swelling and irritation on the eye’s surface. By reducing inflammation, it helps your eyes retain moisture and feel more comfortable.

Restasis (cyclosporine 0.05%) helps your eyes produce more natural tears. It works by changing the way your immune system responds, allowing your tear glands to function better. Instead of just relieving dryness, it helps your body make more moisture over time.

Both medications address dry eye disease, but they work in different ways. One focuses on reducing inflammation, while the other helps your eyes naturally make more tears.

Dosing Schedule of Xiidra vs. Restasis

Both medications follow the same dosing schedule:

• • Xiidra: One drop twice daily (every 12 hours) in each eye.
  • Restasis: One drop twice daily (every 12 hours) in each eye.

Contact lenses should be removed before using the drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting lenses.

Cost of Xiidra vs. Restasis

Restasis and Xiidra are both prescription eye drops, and their costs can vary depending on your insurance coverage, pharmacy location, and available discounts.

In the US, a 30-day supply of Restasis single-use ampules typically costs around $772.27, while a 5.5 mL bottle of 0.05% Restasis MultiDose is priced at approximately $769.89. However, a generic version of Restasis single-use ampules became available in February 2022 after FDA approval.

This generic option can reduce the cost to about $396 for a 30-day supply. Keep in mind that Restasis MultiDose bottles remain available only as a brand-name medication.

Xiidra, on the other hand, is only available as a brand-name medication with no generic alternative at this time. The cost for a 30-day supply typically ranges from $683 to $748.

Save Big on Restasis and Xiidra with Pharma Giant!

If you’re looking to reduce the cost of your dry eye treatment, Pharma Giant offers Restasis and Xiidra at a fraction of the typical US retail price. Get the same trusted medications for much less:

• • Restasis ampules (30-day supply) – As low as $300 for a 30-day supply
  • Generic Restasis – Starting at just $160
  • Restasis MultiDose (7 mL) – Only $290
  • Xiidra (30-day supply) – Just $299

That’s over 50% in savings compared to what you’d normally pay at local pharmacies. Order from Pharma Giant today and start saving!

Expert Opinions on Xiidra vs. Restasis for Dry Eye Disease

In an interview, ophthalmologists Dr. Asbell and Dr. Jeng shared their thoughts on Restasis and Xiidra for dry eye disease.

Key takeaways from their opinions:

1. Restasis works well for many patients:

Dr. Jeng noted that low-dose cyclosporine (Restasis) is effective for most mild to moderate dry eye patients. However, severe cases may not respond well, and Xiidra might be a better option for these patients.

2. Xiidra could be beneficial for severe cases, but more research is needed:

Dr. Jeng is uncertain whether Xiidra is suitable for patients with severe dry eye caused by graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), emphasizing the need for more data before making a recommendation.

Recent research, however, has made some progress. A 2024 study suggested that Xiidra could be a promising long-term treatment for ocular GVHD-related dry eye, particularly for patients seeking a steroid-free option.

Findings showed improved dry eye symptoms and increased tear production, with no serious side effects, vision loss, or increased eye pressure reported.

However, the study had a small sample size of only 32 patients, limiting its strength. Further research with a larger patient group is needed to confirm Xiidra’s effectiveness in this population.

3. Xiidra’s anti-inflammatory action may help certain patients:

Dr. Asbell is encouraged by research showing that Xiidra reduces inflammation by preventing lymphocytes from reaching the eye’s surface. She believes this mechanism may benefit patients with Sjögren’s syndrome, a condition linked to severe dry eye.

4. Xiidra may be a better choice for some patients:

Some patients experience burning with Restasis. These individuals may tolerate Xiidra better. Moreover, Xiidra may work faster than Restasis, which could make it a preferred option for certain patients.

In the end, both doctors agree that the best choice depends on each patient’s specific needs and medical profile.

Summary

Both Restasis and Xiidra effectively treat dry eye disease, but they work differently. Restasis helps your eyes produce more natural tears, while Xiidra reduces inflammation. Xiidra works faster, often within two weeks, whereas Restasis can take up to six months for full benefits.

Side effects differ. Restasis users may experience burning or stinging, while Xiidra can cause an unusual taste. Cost is another factor, with Xiidra being more expensive and Restasis having a cheaper generic option.

Experts suggest Restasis is effective for mild to moderate cases, while Xiidra may be better for severe dry eye. The best choice depends on your symptoms, budget, and response to treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions