Upneeq’s active ingredient, oxymetazoline hydrochloride, stimulates the muscles in the upper eyelids, known as the levator palpebrae superioris (Mueller's muscle), causing them to contract. This results in a lift, opening the eyelids and creating a more refreshed and brighter appearance. The effects are noticeable within minutes of application.

Upneeq can benefit any healthy adult with mild to severe eyelid ptosis or heavy, droopy eyelids. This applies to mature patients who want to try an alternative to a surgical blepharoplasty, or younger adults who are looking to open and brighten heavy eyelids or tired eyes after a long day or an early morning.

Your Upneeq eye drops come in individual packets, each of which is a single dose (enough for both eyes). Twist off the cap of the dropper and apply by tilting your head back and carefully dropping the product into each eye, one by one, and then closing your eyes after each drop, allowing the product to settle. Continue this process until the dropper is empty. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before application and wait 15 minutes before reinserting. Avoid touching the dropper to your eye, and be aware that you may experience brief blurry vision, which will subside quickly.

Once properly applied, you should notice a difference within 15 - 20 minutes.

Your eyes will be lifted and opened for up to 8 hours post-application.

You may use Upneeq once daily or on an “as needed” basis for special occasions.

While side effects are rare, 1-5% of patients may experience temporary dry eye, eye redness, blurred vision, eye irritation, and headaches.

Upneeq should not be used by individuals with narrow-angle or closed-angle glaucoma, eye infections, or eye tumors. For those with conditions like stroke, brain aneurysm, Horner’s syndrome, or myasthenia gravis, doctor approval is required before use. Always consult a healthcare provider to determine if Upneeq is appropriate for you.

Upneeq can typically be used with other eye drops, though you should wait 15 minutes post-administration before you apply other products. Be sure to discuss the products that you are currently using with your provider beforehand.

Yes, Upneeq is FDA approved to treat mild to moderate ptosis in adults. Upneeq eye drops are prescription grade eye drops and require a physician’s approval.