Tag: Droopy eyelid

According to Drugs.com, there is currently no therapeutically equivalent generic version of the prescription eye drop Upneeq. While Upneeq (oxymetazoline ophthalmic) is the only FDA-approved medication specifically for acquired ptosis, patients seeking alternatives due to cost, mild symptoms, or preference for different treatment types have other options. Understanding **what is similar to Upneeq** requires exploring different treatment approaches, from off-label drops to cosmetic procedures and surgery.

Acquired blepharoptosis, or low-lying eyelids, is a common condition affecting a significant number of adults [1.8.2]. For those seeking a non-surgical solution, the critical question is: does Upneeq work permanently?

In clinical trials, 1-5% of patients using Upneeq experienced side effects like eye redness, dry eye, and blurred vision [1.2.2]. While effective for many, it's crucial to understand the full scope of what are the cons of Upneeq before starting treatment.

Following botulinum toxin A injections for facial aesthetics, eyelid ptosis has a reported incidence of around 2.5% to 3.1% [1.3.1, 1.3.6]. This highlights just one example of how certain drugs can lead to a droopy eyelid, but **what medications can cause ptosis?**

While rare, studies show improper botulinum toxin injection technique can lead to unwanted results, with one review noting eyelid ptosis occurs in up to 3% of patients. Understanding what happens if Botox is injected in the wrong place is crucial for both patient and injector to ensure a safe and successful treatment.

Acquired ptosis, or droopy eyelid, can be caused by aging, eye surgery, or underlying medical conditions [1.8.3, 1.8.5]. While many seek a simple solution, the crucial question is: what over-the-counter eye drops are good for ptosis?

According to a study published on PubMed, naphazoline has shown a temporary lifting effect on mild to moderate myopathic ptosis by stimulating Müller's smooth muscle. However, this is considered an off-label use, and most experts do not recommend relying on the decongestant naphazoline for treating persistent or acquired ptosis.

Afrin nasal spray contains the active ingredient oxymetazoline, the same compound used in the prescription eye drop Upneeq, but in a different formulation and concentration. This critical distinction makes using Afrin instead of Upneeq not only ineffective but also extremely dangerous for your eyes. A viral social media hack promoting this use is misleading and has been widely debunked by medical professionals.

Studies suggest that the prevalence of undiagnosed ptosis in adults can be as high as 13.7% [1.10.3]. While often associated with aging, it's crucial to ask: **what drugs can cause ptosis?** A surprising number of common medications can be a contributing factor.