Lifitegrast

Lifitegrast is a medication used in the treatment of dry eye disease. It is marketed under the brand name Xiidra by Shire, a global biopharmaceutical company. Lifitegrast works by blocking a specific protein on the surface of cells in the eye. This protein, known as LFA-1, is involved in inflammation that can lead to dry eye disease.

Mechanism of Action

Lifitegrast is an LFA-1 antagonist. It works by binding to LFA-1, a protein found on the surface of certain cells in the eye. This prevents LFA-1 from interacting with another protein called ICAM-1. This interaction between LFA-1 and ICAM-1 is thought to play a role in the inflammation that can lead to dry eye disease. By blocking this interaction, Lifitegrast can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate the symptoms of dry eye disease.

Uses

Lifitegrast is used to treat the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease, a condition that affects the tear film on the surface of the eye. Symptoms of dry eye disease can include a feeling of dryness, irritation, burning, or discomfort in the eye. Lifitegrast is typically used when other treatments for dry eye disease have not been effective.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Lifitegrast include eye irritation, discomfort or blurred vision when the drops are applied to the eyes, and an unusual taste sensation. More serious side effects can include eye pain, changes in vision, and signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

History

Lifitegrast was approved by the FDA in July 2016, making it the first drug of its kind to be approved for the treatment of dry eye disease.

See Also

• Dry eye syndrome
• LFA-1
• ICAM-1
• Shire