No, Xiidra is not being discontinued in the USA
Despite a change in ownership, Xiidra (lifitegrast ophthalmic solution) remains on the U.S. market and continues to be available for patients with dry eye disease. Concerns about the medication’s status arose after Novartis announced in June 2023 its intent to divest its "front-of-eye" ophthalmology assets, including Xiidra, to Bausch + Lomb. The deal was finalized by the end of September 2023, officially transferring the ownership and marketing rights.
For dry eye patients, the change was primarily a transition in logistics, not a cessation of supply. Bausch + Lomb, a global eye health company, integrated Xiidra into its portfolio alongside other dry eye treatments. To ensure a smooth transition and consistent supply, Novartis continued to manufacture and supply the medication for a limited period on Bausch + Lomb's behalf.
The background of the acquisition
This was not the first time Xiidra had changed hands. The medication, initially developed by Shire, was acquired by Takeda in 2019, who then quickly sold it to Novartis. Novartis's subsequent decision to sell off Xiidra was part of a broader corporate strategy to focus on other therapeutic areas. In contrast, the acquisition was a strategic move for Bausch + Lomb to strengthen its position in the prescription dry eye category. The company added Xiidra to its expanding portfolio, which also includes the recently approved medication, Miebo. This allows Bausch + Lomb to offer complementary dry eye treatments that address different mechanisms of the disease.
Impact on patients and prescriptions
For patients, the change in ownership had minimal impact on their ability to obtain Xiidra. The drug's formulation, effectiveness, and prescribing information remained unchanged. The most notable difference was the eventual transition of patient support and copay assistance programs from Novartis to Bausch + Lomb.
Key steps for patients during the transition:
- Continued Refills: Patients continued to fill their prescriptions as usual, with Novartis overseeing the process until the transition was complete.
- Re-enrollment in Copay Programs: Following the official handoff, patients who relied on copay cards and patient assistance needed to re-enroll in the new Bausch + Lomb-sponsored programs. The official Xiidra website provided clear instructions and contact information for this process.
- Uninterrupted Supply: The structured transition, including Novartis's temporary supply agreement, was designed to prevent any disruption in the medication supply chain.
- No Formulary Changes: As a successful and established drug, Xiidra was expected to maintain its position on most commercial and Medicare formularies under Bausch + Lomb's stewardship.
How the Xiidra transition compares
| Feature | Before (Under Novartis) | After (Under Bausch + Lomb) |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation | Bausch + Lomb Corporation |
| Availability Status in USA | Actively marketed and supplied | Actively marketed and supplied |
| Dry Eye Portfolio | Xiidra alongside other general eye care products | Xiidra, Miebo, and other complementary dry eye treatments |
| Patient Support Programs | Managed by Novartis (phased out in early 2024) | Managed by Bausch + Lomb, requiring re-enrollment |
| Formulary Coverage | Included on many commercial and Medicare plans | Remains included on many plans, no significant changes expected |
| Primary Goal of Acquisition | Part of Novartis's divestment strategy | Strategic expansion of Bausch + Lomb's dry eye leadership |
The status of generic Xiidra and patent information
Some patient confusion may also stem from questions regarding potential generic versions of Xiidra. As of late 2025, no therapeutically equivalent generic version of Xiidra (lifitegrast) is available in the United States. Key patents for Xiidra extend through at least 2033, protecting the brand from generic competition for the foreseeable future. While some older patents have expired, several newer patents protect the active ingredient and formulation.
This is relevant for patients concerned about availability and cost. While a generic equivalent is not an option currently, Bausch + Lomb continues to offer patient assistance programs to help with the cost of the brand-name medication.
Conclusion
In summary, patients have no need to worry: Xiidra is not being discontinued in the USA. The transition from Novartis to Bausch + Lomb was a strategic corporate move that did not disrupt the supply or availability of the dry eye treatment. The medication is still actively manufactured and marketed, and patients can continue to receive their prescriptions. While patient support programs have transitioned to the new owner, Bausch + Lomb has ensured continuity of care. The acquisition has ultimately strengthened the medication's position in the dry eye market, securing its future for years to come.
Learn more about Bausch + Lomb's acquisition of Xiidra on their investor relations page: Bausch + Lomb Completes Acquisition of XIIDRA.
