What Is Xdemvy? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Updated:

March 20, 2026

Author:

Peter Daggett

Summarize this blog with AI:

Xdemvy (Lotilaner) is the first FDA-approved eye drop for Demodex blepharitis. Learn about its uses, dosage, cost, and everything patients need to know in 2026.

Xdemvy Is the First FDA-Approved Eye Drop for Demodex Blepharitis

Xdemvy (Lotilaner ophthalmic solution 0.25%) is a prescription eye drop and the first — and currently only — FDA-approved treatment specifically designed to treat Demodex blepharitis, a common eyelid condition caused by Demodex mites.

If your eye doctor has mentioned Xdemvy, or you've been searching for answers about your itchy, crusty eyelids, this guide covers everything you need to know: what the medication is, how it's used, what it costs, and how to access it in 2026.

What Is Xdemvy?

Here are the key facts:

  • Brand name: Xdemvy
  • Generic name: Lotilaner ophthalmic solution 0.25%
  • Drug class: Ectoparasiticide (isoxazoline parasiticide)
  • Manufacturer: Tarsus Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
  • FDA approval: Approved for the treatment of Demodex blepharitis
  • Controlled substance: No — Xdemvy is not a controlled substance
  • Generic available: No — there is currently no generic version of Xdemvy

Xdemvy comes as an ophthalmic solution (eye drops) in 5 mL and 10 mL bottles. It works by killing Demodex mites that infest the eyelid area — the root cause of Demodex blepharitis.

What Is Xdemvy Used For?

FDA-Approved Use

Xdemvy is approved for treating Demodex blepharitis. This is a form of eyelid inflammation caused by an overgrowth of tiny Demodex mites (primarily Demodex folliculorum) that live in and around the hair follicles of your eyelashes.

Symptoms of Demodex blepharitis include:

  • Itchy, irritated eyelids
  • Redness and swelling along the lash line
  • Crusty or flaky debris at the base of eyelashes (called cylindrical dandruff or collarettes)
  • A gritty or burning sensation in the eyes
  • Eyelash loss in some cases

Demodex blepharitis is more common than many people realize — it's estimated to affect millions of Americans, though it's often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed as general blepharitis or dry eye.

Off-Label Use

Some eye care providers may also use Xdemvy off-label for meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) associated with Demodex lid infestation, sometimes called Demodex-induced meibomianitis. This is when the mites cause blockage or dysfunction of the oil glands in your eyelids.

How Is Xdemvy Taken?

The dosing instructions for Xdemvy are straightforward:

  • Dose: One drop in each affected eye
  • Frequency: Twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart
  • Duration: 6 weeks (42 days)

Important Usage Tips

  • Don't touch: Do not allow the dropper tip to touch your eye, eyelids, fingers, or any other surface. This prevents contamination.
  • Contact lenses: Remove contact lenses before instilling Xdemvy. Wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
  • Other eye drops: If you use other eye medications, wait at least 5 minutes between each medication.
  • Complete the course: Use Xdemvy for the full 42 days, even if your symptoms improve earlier. The 6-week treatment covers at least two full Demodex mite life cycles to ensure thorough eradication.

Step-by-Step Application

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly
  2. Tilt your head back slightly
  3. Gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket
  4. Hold the bottle above your eye and squeeze one drop into the pocket
  5. Close your eye gently for 1-2 minutes (don't squeeze)
  6. Repeat in the other eye if both are affected
  7. Replace the cap immediately

Who Should Not Take Xdemvy?

According to the prescribing information, Xdemvy has no listed contraindications — meaning there are no specific conditions that completely prevent someone from using it. However, you should always discuss your full medical history with your eye doctor before starting treatment.

Special Populations

  • Pregnancy: No human data available. The risk of fetal harm is not expected to be significant due to the minimal systemic absorption from eye drops. Discuss with your doctor.
  • Breastfeeding: No data on whether Lotilaner passes into breast milk. Systemic exposure is expected to be minimal. Talk to your doctor.
  • Children: Safety and effectiveness have not been established in pediatric patients.
  • Older adults: No differences in safety or effectiveness have been observed in older patients.

How Much Does Xdemvy Cost?

Cost is one of the biggest concerns patients have about Xdemvy. Here's what you need to know:

Without Insurance

  • 5 mL bottle: Approximately $600
  • 10 mL bottle (full 6-week course): Up to $2,034
  • Typical full-course cost: Around $1,850

With Insurance

Insurance coverage for Xdemvy has improved significantly:

  • Over 85% of insured patients across commercial, Medicare Part D, and Medicaid plans now have coverage
  • Prior authorization is commonly required
  • With insurance coverage and available savings programs, the majority of patients pay $30 or less

Savings Programs

  • Xdemvy Savings Card: Eligible commercially insured patients may pay as little as $0 copay. Available at xdemvy.com/savings-and-access.
  • Tarsus Connect Patient Assistance Program: For eligible uninsured or underinsured patients who meet financial hardship criteria.

For a complete breakdown of all savings options, see our guide on how to save money on Xdemvy.

How to Get Xdemvy

Xdemvy is a limited distribution drug, so you won't find it at your regular retail pharmacy. It's dispensed through select specialty pharmacies, including CVS Specialty and Walgreens Specialty, often with home delivery.

Your eye doctor's office will typically help coordinate sending your prescription to the appropriate specialty pharmacy. For help finding Xdemvy, visit Medfinder or check out our guide on how to check if a pharmacy has Xdemvy in stock.

Final Thoughts

Xdemvy represents a major breakthrough for people suffering from Demodex blepharitis. Before its approval, patients had to rely on off-label remedies like tea tree oil scrubs or oral Ivermectin — treatments that were often inconvenient, less effective, or not specifically designed for the condition.

If you've been dealing with persistent, crusty, itchy eyelids that don't respond to standard treatments, talk to your eye doctor about whether Demodex blepharitis could be the cause and whether Xdemvy is right for you.

Want to learn more? Explore our related guides:

What is Xdemvy used to treat?

Xdemvy is FDA-approved to treat Demodex blepharitis, an eyelid condition caused by an overgrowth of Demodex mites on the eyelashes. It is the first and only prescription eye drop specifically designed for this condition.

How long do you use Xdemvy?

Xdemvy is used for 6 weeks (42 days). You apply one drop in each affected eye twice daily, about 12 hours apart. The full course covers at least two complete Demodex mite life cycles to ensure the mites are eradicated.

Is there a generic version of Xdemvy?

No, there is currently no generic version of Xdemvy available. It is a brand-name medication made by Tarsus Pharmaceuticals. However, savings programs including the Xdemvy Savings Card can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for eligible patients.

How much does Xdemvy cost without insurance?

Without insurance, a full 6-week course of Xdemvy costs approximately $1,850. A single 5 mL bottle is around $600. With insurance coverage and the manufacturer savings card, most patients pay $30 or less out of pocket.

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