Lumify Eye Drops - Potthoff Eye Care and Surgery (2024)

Lumify Eye Drops

Last year Bausch & Lomb released Lumify eye drops, marketed to help reduce eye redness and give the appearance of whiter and “brighter” eyes. Lumify is available over-the-counter so they do not require a prescription from your eye doctor. Here in Traverse City, MI I have seen them on the shelves at Rite Aid and Walgreens, a small bottle of Lumify eye drops sells for between $10 and $20.

How Does Lumify Work?

The active ingredient in Lumify is a drug called brimonidine. Brimonidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist; this means that it causes constriction of blood vessels. By constricting blood vessels on the surface of the eye in the conjunctiva, it can create the appearance of whiter eyes.

Interestingly, brimonidine has long been used by ophthalmologists and optometrists to lower eye pressure, usually in the treatment of glaucoma. For this indication a much higher concentration of brimonidine is used. Brimonidine is also sometimes given to prevent eye pressure increases following laser eye surgery procedures, such as a YAG capsulotomy to clear a film that can form following cataract surgery.

The studies of Lumify show that it is too low a concentration to meaningful alter eye pressure, so don’t worry about Lumify making your eye pressure go too low (which is nearly impossible anyway in the absence of surgery or trauma to an eye).

Is Lumify safe?

Yes, when used as directed. Given the extensive history we have in using brimonidine to treat glaucoma, eye doctors know that it is generally well-tolerated even at much higher concentrations than are found in Lumify. Of course, some patients will be allergic to any medication and Lumify is no exception. If you notice your eyes getting more red and becoming itchy following the use of Lumify, it is best to stop using the drops until you can be evaluated by an ophthalmologist or optometrist.

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Lumify Eye Drops - Potthoff Eye Care and Surgery (2024)

FAQs

Is it safe to use Lumify after cataract surgery? ›

Like choosing a toothpaste, some patients try different brands before deciding on their personal favorite. However, Visine, Clear Eyes, and Lumify are not recommended. They contain a drug ingredient to get the red out that is not necessary during this post-operative time period.) 13.

Can I use Lumify eye drops if I have glaucoma? ›

Yes, when used as directed. Given the extensive history we have in using brimonidine to treat glaucoma, eye doctors know that it is generally well-tolerated even at much higher concentrations than are found in Lumify. Of course, some patients will be allergic to any medication and Lumify is no exception.

What do eye doctors say about Lumify? ›

Doctors like LUMIFY because of the reduced risk of rebound redness and because it uses no bleach or dyes. And it's clinically proven to be safe, effective, and not lose efficacy over time when used as directed. No wonder it's the #1 eye doctor recommended redness reliever eye drop.

Who should not use Lumify eye drops? ›

While anyone can use Lumify eye drops, you should speak with your eye doctor before using this product. They can help determine if this medication is safe for you to use. Avoid Lumify eye drops if you're allergic to brimonidine, and speak to your doctor if you're currently pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can Lumify affect your vision? ›

Get medical help if you use too much Lumify (brimonidine) or if you experience eye pain, changes in your vision, redness or irritation that worsens or lasts more than 3 days.

Which eye drops are best after cataract surgery? ›

Common antibiotic drops for after cataract surgery are in the fluoroquinolone family. These include drops like moxifloxacin. A commonly used brand name for moxifloxacin eye drops is Vigamox. There are many different options here.

Who should not use brimonidine eye drops? ›

Other Medical Problems
  • Depression or.
  • Heart attack, history of or.
  • Heart disease or.
  • Orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure when standing up) or.
  • Raynaud disease (blood vessel disease) or.
  • Stroke, history of or.
  • Thromboangiitis obliterans (blood vessel disease)—Use with caution. May make these conditions worse.
Apr 1, 2024

Can your eyes become dependent on Lumify? ›

Overusing anti-redness eye drops can make your eyes dependent on them, making the redness worse.

Is Clear Eyes as good as Lumify? ›

Unlike Visine and Clear Eyes, the active ingredient in Lumify (brimonidine tartrate) targets the eye's veins (not the arteries) and so does not interrupt the flow of oxygen in the eye as it works.

What eye drops are being recalled in 2024? ›

UPDATE JAN. 31, 2024: The FDA is warning consumers not to purchase or use South Moon, Rebright or FivFivGo eye drops because of the risk of eye infection. These “copycat” eye drops resemble Bausch + Lomb's Lumify brand eye drops.

How to whiten eyes naturally? ›

Lifestyle modifications like consuming a diet rich in antioxidants, getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, avoiding eye strain, and protecting eyes from irritants and UV light are key factors in keeping the sclera white.

What is a known adverse reaction when using brimonidine eye drops? ›

Eye discomfort/itching/redness, blurred vision, dizziness, dry mouth, bad taste in the mouth, drowsiness, or tiredness may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

How long after cataract surgery can you use eye drops? ›

How long do I have to use the antibiotic eye drops after cataract surgery? Answer: Your surgeon should give you instructions on this but two weeks is often enough if there is no sign of infection.

How long does it take for the lens to settle after cataract surgery? ›

It's advised that you wait four to six weeks for your eye to settle down before having an eye test for a new pair of glasses. If you wear very strong glasses, you may need to wait until you've had your other eye operated on to balance your vision.

How to whiten eyes without eye drops? ›

By eating more foods rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene, you can work to whiten your eyes from the inside-out. While this natural method is slow-acting, it's also long-lasting and better for your eye and body health overall, so be patient with the process.

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