Eye Opening Upneeq Has Arrived

Every year, the profession of optometry rolls out something new. This year is no exception. Recently, a new eye drop was released that has tapped into an unexpected population. It is called Upneeq. It is actually a medication that has been around for a while as a decongestant/vasoconstrictor commonly known as Afrin. One of the side effects noted was that eyelids were raised a couple of millimeters. Like Latisse, it was recognized to have an application other than the original purpose. So, voile! A new drop was created for cosmetic reasons.

Recently, I went to dinner with some friends and we all tried the drop at the same time. About 15  minutes later, we all noticed our eyelids were raised a bit. Not too much but enough to make us look well-rested. It works! One of us commented that she felt she actually saw better in the nighttime with her eyelids raised up. If one’s eyelids are too low also known as ptosis, it can obstruct the pupil and limit the light entering the eye. With the eyelids raised above the pupil, it allows more light in and can actually improve vision. The drops last about 6-8 hours.

Current applications include someone who just wants to look well rested, someone who is considering an eyelid lift operation (blepharoplasty) but does not want to get the operation yet, and someone who has one eyelid droopier than the other.

Upkeep is currently only available with a prescription. It is not covered by insurance as it is considered an elective medication. There are some contraindications that an eye care professional needs to rule out before it can be prescribed. Feel free to make an appointment and we can see if you are a good candidate! 

Author: Kristine Kobayashi, OD

Kris Kobayashi, O.D. completed her undergraduate studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara. She then earned her Doctor of Optometry degree from the Southern California College of Optometry. Dr. Kobayashi has specialized training in low vision and hospital-based optometry. She obtained her license to utilize pharmaceutical agents in the state of California in 1997. She discovered her passion for eye care when she got her first pair of glasses in 4th grade. When she is not in the office or at a continuing education meeting, she is spending time with her husband, Randy, and 2 kids. She enjoys volunteering for Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and at the Orange County Ronald McDonald house.