A new prescription eye drop may be a solution to this condition

Drooping eyelids, medically referred to as “blepharoptosis,” can make you look tired.

While a surgical eyelid lift has been the most common treatment for drooping eyelids, there is now a new nonsurgical option called Upneeq.® It’s the first FDA-approved prescription eye drop that temporarily lifts drooping eyelids.

How does Upneeq work?

Upneeq is a oxymetazoline hydrochloride solution that causes the muscle behind the eyelid, known as Müller’s muscle, to contract. This raises the upper eyelid, resulting in a more open-eyed appearance.

This is the same active ingredient and mechanism used in nasal sprays, which utilize oxymetazoline to cause blood vessels in the nose to contract, opening up the nasal cavity for easier breathing.

How long does Upneeq last?

Upneeq is a once-daily eye drop that has been shown to last at least six hours during clinical trials.

What are the side effects?

Mild side effects including redness, inflammation, dry eye and temporarily blurred vision have been reported with Upneeq. If you experience any of these or other side effects, let your healthcare provider know so that he or she can determine if Upneeq is right for you.

Who’s a good candidate for Upneeq?

Men or women with mild to moderate eyelid drooping may be good candidates for Upneeq. For more severe cases of blepharoptosis, especially where vision is impaired, a surgical procedure may still be the best option.

Upneeq can interfere with certain medications, including beta-blockers, blood pressure medications and others. Always disclose all medications and supplements that you are taking to your doctor before beginning a new prescription treatment.

However, Upneeq isn’t for everyone. One of my young nurses who already has big, beautiful eyes tried it, and she looked like a bug for about six hours. However, it is safe and temporary and costs around $200 for one bottle.

Bottom line

Drooping eyelids sometimes happen temporarily after getting Botox injections. Upneeq is a new, easy nonsurgical treatment for drooping eyelids. If you want your eyes to look more open, talk to your doctor to see if this prescription eye drop could be right for you.

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