Upneeq is a groundbreaking FDA-approved eye drop designed specifically for the treatment of blepharoptosis. Experience a subtle eyelid lift and enhanced vision today.
Upneeq® is the first and only FDAâapproved prescription eye drop indicated for the treatment of acquired blepharoptosis, commonly known as droopy or low-lying eyelids, in adults. This innovative ophthalmic solution works by stimulating the eyelid muscles to create a subtle, yet noticeable lift, helping to improve both appearance and vision. Our eye doctors have embraced Upneeq as a non-surgical option that can boost the confidence of patients who wish to have a more alert, refreshed look.
Upneeq® contains oxymetazoline hydrochloride at a concentration of 0.1%, an active ingredient that acts as an alpha-adrenergic receptor agonist. Here’s the thing: it works by selectively activating receptors in Müller’s muscle, a smooth muscle in the upper eyelid that helps with eyelid elevation. When these receptors are stimulated, Müller’s muscle contracts, resulting in a temporary lift of the upper eyelid that not only enhances the appearance but also improves the superior visual field.
This mechanism of action enables Upneeq to provide an average eyelid lift of around 1 millimeter, as observed in clinical trials. The onset of eyelid elevation can occur as quickly as 5 minutes after instillation, and the effect lasts for up to 8 hours, offering patients an all-day solution to counteract the effects of droopy lids associated with aging, muscle weakness, or other etiologies of acquired ptosis.
Before any new treatment reaches our patients, it undergoes thorough evaluation to ensure it is both safe and effective. Upneeq has been assessed in two six-week, randomized, double-masked, vehicle-controlled studies involving more than 300 patients with acquired blepharoptosis. These studies measured improvements in eyelid elevation using the Marginal Reflex Distance 1 (MRD-1) and visual field changes with the Leicester Peripheral Field Test (LPFT).
The results were compelling. Patients using Upneeq experienced a statistically significant average improvement in MRD-1, typically around a 1-millimeter lift, compared to those receiving the vehicle. Additionally, improvements in the superior visual field were observed at 2 hours on day 14 and maintained at 6 hours on day 1, signaling reassurance that better eyelid positioning translates to better vision. It’s important to note that these improvements help address both aesthetic concerns and functional vision impairments often associated with ptosis.
Contact our office now to see if Upneeq is right for you and take the first step towards a refreshed appearance.
One of the standout features of Upneeq® is its ease of use. The recommended dosing is one drop per affected eye once daily, making it a convenient option for individuals seeking to improve the appearance of their eyelids without surgery. The product is supplied in a single-use container that is non-preserved and designed for one-time use only—this minimizes the risk of contamination and ensures that each dose is fresh and safe.
For optimal use, our eye doctors advise that patients remove their contact lenses prior to instillation and wait at least 15 minutes after applying Upneeq before reinserting lenses. Additionally, if you are using any other topical ophthalmic medications, allow a 15-minute interval between each drop to prevent any potential interactions. This straightforward administration process reinforces the practicality of including Upneeq in your daily routine.
Upneeq® is indicated for adults suffering from acquired blepharoptosis, a condition where the upper eyelid progressively descends due to factors such as aging, trauma, or muscular dysfunction. While droopy eyelids can affect anyone, the incidence generally increases with age, making this treatment particularly significant for older adults. Our eye doctors carefully assess each patient’s history to ensure that the ptosis is not secondary to more serious underlying conditions, like stroke, Horner’s syndrome, or myasthenia gravis.
Before prescribing Upneeq, it is crucial to conduct a comprehensive evaluation including consideration of the patient’s medical history, physical eye examination—which often includes checking eyelid symmetry, eyelid position, and extraocular movements—and assessing other neurological signs that might suggest an alternative or more severe diagnosis. In cases where more serious conditions are identified, additional diagnostic work may be necessary.
Contact our office now to see if Upneeq is right for you and take the first step towards a refreshed appearance.
Experience the benefits of Upneeq for blepharoptosis treatment—FDA-approved eye drops that lift droopy eyelids effectively.