Upneeq Side Effects & Safety Information

February 24, 2026

Understanding Potential Side Effects of Upneeq

Upneeq® (oxymetazoline hydrochloride ophthalmic solution), 0.1% is a prescription eye drop designed to treat low-lying lids (acquired blepharoptosis) in adults. It works by stimulating the Müller’s muscle, which plays a role in maintaining upper eyelid position. By causing the muscle to contract, Upneeq can result in a temporary lifting effect on the upper eyelid. The average lift in Upneeq clinical trials was 1mm. However, individual results may vary. [1]

Like all medications, Upneeq can have potential side effects. Upneeq is generally safe and well-tolerated, but it is important to be informed about any possible side effects you may experience. This page aims to provide clear and comprehensive information about Upneeq side effects.

Common Upneeq Side Effects

The most common side effects of Upneeq include:

Eye inflammation
Eye redness
Dry eye
Blurred vision
Eye pain at the time of use
Eye irritation
Headache

These side effects are typically mild and temporary. In clinical trials, the majority of patients (95%) who used Upneeq reported that it caused “no discomfort” [2]. For more information on side effects, access our Patient FAQs and talk to your doctor.

Warning and Precautions Associated with Upneeq

It's important to be aware that Upneeq may not be suitable for everyone. Here's a breakdown of specific conditions and considerations:

Low-lying lids may be related to conditions such as stroke and/or brain aneurysm, Horner syndrome, myasthenia gravis, loss of the ability to move eye muscles, eye infection and eye tumors. Tell your doctor if you have any of these conditions.
Upneeq is a type of medication that may affect your blood pressure. If you have heart disease, uncontrolled high or low blood pressure, or feel faint at rest or when quickly standing up, you should call your doctor if your symptoms get worse.
Patients with reduced blood flow to the brain or heart, or patients who experience eye or mouth dryness due to an immune system disorder (Sjögren’s syndrome), should use care when taking Upneeq. Call your doctor immediately if you feel your symptoms may be getting worse.
Upneeq may increase the risk of eye pressure due to fluid buildup (angle-closure glaucoma) in patients with untreated narrow-angle glaucoma. Call your doctor immediately if you feel increased pressure in your eye after using Upneeq.
Do not let the tip of the Upneeq vial touch your eye or any other surface. This can help prevent eye injury or contamination. Each Upneeq vial is for one-time use and should be discarded after being used.

What else should my doctor know about me before prescribing me Upneeq?

Before starting Upneeq, have a comprehensive discussion with your healthcare professional about your full medical history, including pre-existing conditions [1]. This will help determine if Upneeq is an appropriate treatment option for you.

Your doctor should review your full medical history before prescribing Upneeq.
Upneeq belongs to a class of medication (alpha adrenergic agonists) that may affect your blood pressure. Use Upneeq carefully if you currently take an alpha adrenergic antagonist medication to treat heart disease or an enlarged prostate.
Patients taking beta blockers, or other medications to treat hypertension or an abnormal heartbeat, should also be careful when using Upneeq.
Patients who use a certain class of antidepressant medication (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) should also be careful when using Upneeq, as it may affect the way your body absorbs the medication.

Talk to Your Health Care Professional

Discuss your medical history, symptoms, and concerns with your doctor. This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor before starting any new medication.

Have other questions about Upneeq? Download our full Frequently Asked Questions document for additional information.

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