PURPOSE: Lifitegrast ophthalmic solution 5.0% has demonstrated efficacy in patients with dry eye disease (DED), with a subset of patients experiencing rapid and sustained symptomatic response. This study aimed to characterize the clinical and demographic features of "robust responders" to lifitegrast through eye care professional (ECP) qualitative interviews and retrospective chart review.

METHODS: This study combined two complementary methods. First, structured qualitative interviews were conducted with experienced ECPs across the U.S. who routinely prescribe lifitegrast for DED. ECPs were asked to describe the clinical profile of patients who achieved rapid (within 4 weeks) and sustained (≥3 months) symptomatic response. Second, a retrospective chart review was performed on patients identified by participating ECPs as robust responders. Data collected included demographics, DED severity, comorbidities, prior treatments, time to symptom relief, and treatment persistence.

RESULTS: ECPs consistently described robust responders as patients with moderate-to-severe DED with predominantly inflammatory features (e.g., elevated MMP-9, lid margin disease, conjunctival hyperemia) and a history of incomplete response to artificial tears alone. Chart review data supported these clinical impressions: robust responders tended to be female, with mean age in the 50s-60s, and had clinically documented signs of ocular surface inflammation at baseline. The majority reported meaningful symptom improvement within the first 4 weeks of treatment, with sustained response over follow-up. Patient adherence and persistence were high among this subgroup.

CONCLUSIONS: Robust responders to lifitegrast are characterized by inflammatory DED features and a history of inadequate response to lubricants. Identifying these clinical signals early may help guide treatment selection and improve outcomes. These findings support a proactive approach to recognizing patients most likely to benefit from anti-inflammatory therapy.