Upneeq Eye Drops

What Is Acquired Blepharoptosis?

Acquired blepharoptosis is a condition in which the upper eyelid droops or sits lower than normal. This can happen gradually and may affect one or both eyes. Beyond changes in appearance, some individuals with low-lying eyelids describe a tired-looking appearance, and in certain cases, the drooping eyelid can partially obstruct the upper portion of the visual field.

Not every case of a drooping eyelid is the result of acquired ptosis, and this page isn't intended to diagnose your specific condition. If you've noticed changes in your eyelids, a healthcare professional can help determine the underlying cause and whether Upneeq may be an appropriate option for you.

How Does Upneeq Work?

Upneeq's active ingredient, oxymetazoline hydrochloride, is an alpha-adrenergic agonist. In simple terms, it works by stimulating alpha-adrenergic receptors connected to the superior tarsal muscle, also known as Müller's muscle, located in the upper eyelid. When this muscle contracts, it temporarily lifts the upper eyelid.

It's important to understand that this effect is temporary. Upneeq does not permanently correct or cure ptosis, and it does not repair the eyelid itself. Instead, it offers a non-surgical way to temporarily address low-lying eyelids for a period of time after application.

Upneeq Safety and Side Effects

As with any prescription medication, Upneeq carries potential side effects and safety considerations. The most common adverse reactions, occurring in 1–5% of patients, include eye inflammation, eye redness, dry eye, blurred vision, eye pain at the time of use, eye irritation, and headache. These are not the only possible side effects, so contact your healthcare provider about any reaction that bothers you or doesn't go away.

Because oxymetazoline is an alpha-adrenergic agonist, Upneeq may affect blood pressure. Patients with heart disease, uncontrolled high or low blood pressure, or symptoms of faintness at rest or upon standing quickly should discuss these issues with their healthcare provider and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen.

Upneeq may also increase the risk of elevated eye pressure due to fluid buildup in patients with untreated narrow-angle glaucoma. Seek medical attention if you experience increased eye pressure after using Upneeq.

To reduce the risk of contamination or eye injury, never let the vial tip touch your eye, hands, or any surface, and always discard the vial after one use.

Who Should Discuss Upneeq With Their Doctor?

Because Upneeq can interact with certain health conditions and medications, your prescribing healthcare professional should review your complete medical history before recommending treatment. Use caution and discuss your history if you have reduced blood flow to the brain or heart, or if you experience eye or mouth dryness related to an immune-system disorder such as Sjögren's syndrome. Contact your doctor if any related symptoms worsen.

Caution is also warranted for patients taking alpha-adrenergic antagonist medications (often used for heart disease or an enlarged prostate), beta-blockers, other blood pressure medications, medications for abnormal heart rhythm, or monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressants. Never stop or change a medication on your own — this decision should always involve your prescribing healthcare professional.

It's also worth noting that low-lying eyelids can sometimes be associated with underlying medical conditions, including stroke, brain aneurysm, Horner syndrome, myasthenia gravis, loss of the ability to move eye muscles, eye infection, or eye tumors. This doesn't mean every case of drooping eyelids stems from one of these conditions, but it underscores why a proper medical evaluation matters before starting treatment.