Upneeq

What is UPNEEQ?

(UPNEEQ) This medication is used to treat a certain eyelid condition (acquired blepharoptosis) that causes drooping upper eyelid(s). It belongs to a class of drugs known as alpha agonists. Oxymetazoline works by making a certain eyelid muscle get shorter and tighter (contract).

How should I use UPNEEQ?

Read the Instructions for Use leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using oxymetazoline and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Use this medication in the affected eye(s) as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. To apply eye drops, wash hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface. If you are wearing contact lenses, remove them before using eye drops. Wait at least 15 minutes before replacing your contact lenses. Tilt your head back, look upward, and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and place one drop into the pouch. Look downward, gently close your eyes, and place one finger at the corner of your eye (near the nose). Apply gentle pressure for 1 to 2 minutes before opening your eyes. This will prevent the medication from draining out. Try not to blink or rub your eye. If a drop misses your eye, try again. If directed to use this medication in both eyes, repeat these steps for your other eye. After you have applied the daily dose of oxymetazoline, throw away the single-use container. Do not save any unused medication left in the single-use container. Before using, check this product visually. Do not use if the liquid has changed color or is cloudy. If you are using another kind of eye medication (such as drops or ointments), wait at least 15 minutes before applying other medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the drops to enter the eye. Wait several minutes for your vision to clear before driving or operating machinery. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day. Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take UPNEEQ?

Before using oxymetazoline, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: high or low blood pressure, heart problems, stroke, other eye problems (such as glaucoma, eye infection/mass), a certain immune system disorder (Sjogren's syndrome), certain muscle/nerve problems (such as Horner syndrome, myasthenia gravis). After you apply this drug, your vision may become temporarily blurred. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs clear vision until you can do it safely. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

What may interact with UPNEEQ?

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

What if I miss a dose of UPNEEQ?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

What side effects may I notice from receiving UPNEEQ?

Stinging, irritation, tearing, dry eye, or blurred vision may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: redness/itching/swelling in or around the eyes, vision changes, drooping eyelids. Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: eye pain. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Where should I keep UPNEEQ?

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.