This is the second of 3 articles about new eyedrops that are available to treat different eye conditions. The previous article addressed a drop available without a prescription to whiten the eyes. This entry will discuss a prescription eyedrop that widens the eye.
UPNEEQ Eye Drops
Time, cataract surgery, and years of contact lens wear can cause droopy eyelids. The medical name for droopy eyelids is blepharoptosis. Blepharoptosis gives the appearance of tired, older looking eyes. Upneeq eyedrops are a temporary option that lifts the eyelids about 1mm. 1mm doesn’t sound like much, but it can be enough to cosmetically benefit many patients.
Upneeq works by stimulating an involuntary eyelid muscle to contract. This muscle is called Muller’s muscle. The active ingredient in Upneeq is oxymetazoline hydrochloride. It stimulates Muller’s muscle, causing it to contract and lift the eyelid.
Upneeq is prescribed as a single drop per day, the effect lasts an average of 6 hours. Not everyone is a candidate for Upneeq. The cause of the blepharoptosis must be determined as not all drooping eyelids can be treated with Upneeq. Certain health conditions and medications are contraindicated as well.
This eye drop is a temporary alternative to surgery for those who are not prepared or are a poor candidate to have a surgical eyelid lift. This is a “first-of-its-kind,” non-surgical treatment for eyelid ptosis. Upneeq requires a written prescription.
If you are looking for a dramatic result, eyelid surgery is an alternative with lasting results.