What is Lumify eye drops?
Lumify eye drops are a popular over-the-counter (OTC) medication used to relieve eye redness. They contain the active ingredient brimonidine tartrate, which is a selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist. This FDA-approved formulation was developed by doctors and is clinically proven to reduce redness in 1 minute and last up to 8 hours. Lumify works differently to selectively target redness with a lower risk of potential side effects. Contains absolutely no bleach or dyes.
While Lumify eye drops have become increasingly popular in recent years, they are not without their pros and cons. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of Lumify eye drops in detail.
How it works
The active ingredient in Lumify is brimonidine tartrate (0.025%). Low dose brimonidine selectively constricts the veins in the eye as opposed to arteries thereby providing effective redness relief with a low incidence of side effects associated with other redness relievers when used as directed. Brimonidine is NOT bleach or a dye.
The inactive ingredients in Lumify are benzalkonium chloride, boric acid, calcium chloride dihydrate, glycerin, potassium chloride, sodium borate decahydrate, sodium chloride, and water for injection. Hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide may be used to adjust pH.
Pros of Lumify Eye Drops:
1. Fast-Acting: Lumify eye drops work quickly, with noticeable results in as little as one minute. This makes them an ideal choice for people who need fast relief from eye redness.
2. Long-Lasting: Lumify eye drops can provide relief from eye redness for up to 8 hours. This means that they can be used once daily to provide all-day relief.
3. Safe for Regular Use: Lumify eye drops are safe for regular use, as long as they are used as directed. They can be used daily without causing rebound redness or other negative side effects.
4. No Prescription Required: Lumify eye drops are available over-the-counter, which means that a prescription is not required to purchase them. This makes them accessible to anyone who needs them.
5. Minimal Side Effects: Lumify eye drops are generally well-tolerated and have minimal side effects. The most common side effects include mild eye discomfort, itching, and redness. However, these side effects are usually mild and temporary.
6. Safe for Contact Lens Wearers: Lumify eye drops are safe for use with contact lenses. They can be applied while wearing contacts and do not need to be removed prior to application.
7. No Stinging Sensation: Lumify eye drops do not cause a stinging sensation upon application, which can be a common complaint with other eye drops.
Cons of Lumify Eye Drops:
1. High Cost: Lumify eye drops can be expensive compared to other over-the-counter eye drops. This can be a significant drawback for people who need to use them regularly.
2. Not Suitable for Everyone: Lumify eye drops may not be suitable for everyone. People with certain medical conditions, such as narrow-angle glaucoma or cardiovascular disease, may not be able to use Lumify eye drops safely. It is important to speak with a doctor before using Lumify eye drops if you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications.
3. Limited Efficacy: While Lumify eye drops are effective at reducing eye redness, they do not address the underlying cause of the redness. If the redness is caused by an underlying condition, such as an infection or allergy, Lumify eye drops may provide only temporary relief.
4. Short Expiry Date: Lumify eye drops have a short expiry date once opened, usually around 6 weeks. This can be a problem for people who do not use the drops regularly.
5. Potential Side Effects: While Lumify eye drops have minimal side effects, some people may experience more severe side effects such as eye pain, vision changes, or an allergic reaction. If these side effects occur, it is important to stop using the drops immediately and seek medical attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often can I use Lumify? Can Lumify be used daily?
Instill one drop in each eye that needs it every 6-8 hours. Don’t use it more than 4 times a day. As with other OTC redness relievers, you should stop using and ask a doctor if you experience eye pain, changes in vision, redness, or irritation that worsen or lasts more than 72 hours (3 days).
Can I use Lumify eye drops with my contacts?
Yes, Lumify can be used with contacts, but be sure to take them out before putting Lumify in your eyes. Wait 10 minutes before putting your contacts back in after use of Lumify.
Can I use it with other eye drops?
Yes, but you’ll want to wait at least 5 minutes between products.
How long will they last?
In clinical trials, Lumify provided significant redness reduction for up to 8 hours.
Do I need a prescription?
No. Lumify is available over the counter, without a prescription. Find it in the eye care aisle at most major retailers.
How do Lumify eye drops work differently?
Lumify is FDA approved and is the first and only over-the-counter eye drop to contain the active ingredient brimonidine tartrate (0.025%).
Lumify works differently than other redness relievers on the market by selectively targeting redness and in clinical trials was safe and effective when used as directed.
How long will they last?
In clinical trials, Lumify provided significant redness reduction for up to 8 hours.
How long will a bottle last?
How long the bottle lasts will depend on how frequently you use it. Once eye drops have been opened, they risk being contaminated with bacteria. Therefore, it is recommended that you throw away any opened bottles of eye drops after 3 months, even if the expiration date is later. You also should never share eye drops – eye infections can be spread this way.
Is Lumify eye drops for dry eyes?
Lumify eye drops should only be used to relieve red eyes due to minor eye irritations.
Is Lumify eye drops safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
No, Lumify eye drops have not been tested on pregnant or lactating women. If pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a healthcare professional before use.
What drugs interact with Lumify eye drops?
Some products that may interact with Lumify eye drops include beta-blockers (such as atenolol, metoprolol, and timolol eye drops), digoxin, and high blood pressure medications (such as clonidine, terazosin), tricyclic antidepressants (such as amitriptyline).
Where can I buy Lumify?
Lumify is available online and at most major retailers, traditional and online pharmacies, mass merchandising outlets, and health stores across the country.
