Rhopressa

Indicated For

open-angle glaucoma, ocular hypertension

About This Medication

# Alcon Cares™ Patient Assistance Program Guide: How to Get Rhopressa® (netarsudil) at Low or No Cost Rhopressa® (netarsudil ophthalmic solution) 0.02% is a prescription eye drop used to lower intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. The **Alcon Cares™ Patient Assistance Program** provides **free medication** to eligible U.S. patients experiencing financial hardship with limited or no prescription insurance.[1][5][10] ## About Rhopressa® and Why Assistance Matters **Rhopressa®** works by increasing the outflow of fluid from the eye through the trabecular meshwork, a key drainage pathway. It's typically prescribed once daily and comes in a sterile, multi-dose bottle. Glaucoma treatments like Rhopressa are crucial to prevent vision loss, but without insurance, costs can exceed $300 per month, making access challenging for many.[1][2][6] Alcon, the manufacturer, offers multiple support options, but **Alcon Cares™** is designed for uninsured or underinsured patients in need. This guide focuses on the free medication program while noting copay options for those with coverage.[1][3] ## Who Qualifies for Alcon Cares™? The program targets **U.S. residents** who: - Cannot afford their medication. - Lack prescription insurance coverage. - Do not qualify for local, state, or federal programs (unless documented as causing financial hardship). - Meet income guidelines at **200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)** based on household size.[5][10] **Income Eligibility Breakdown** Eligibility is assessed at **up to 200% FPL**. Use the table below for 2026 estimates (FPL adjusts annually; confirm current levels via HHS.gov). | Household Size | Annual Income Limit (200% FPL) | Monthly Income Approx. | |---------------|-------------------------------|-----------------------| | 1 (Individual)| $30,120 | $2,510 | | 2 (Couple) | $40,880 | $3,407 | | 3 | $51,640 | $4,303 | | 4 | $62,400 | $5,200 | *Add ~$10,760 per additional person. Proof of income required.[5][10] ## Insurance Requirements **No prescription insurance** is the primary criterion. Patients with coverage from government programs (e.g., Medicare Part D, Medicaid) generally do not qualify unless hardship is proven. For **commercially insured** patients, use the separate **Alcon Savings Card** ($30 copay) or **Patient Access Program** instead.[1][5][9] **Medicare patients**: Alcon Direct Access Support offers Rhopressa at **$79** without Part D coverage or **$60** for Inveltys (similar program).[1][7] Extra Help from Medicare may also apply if income/resources qualify.[4] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Confirm Eligibility**: Review income (200% FPL) and insurance status. Call **800-222-8103 Ext. 1** to speak with Alcon Cares™ or visit myalcon.com/payment-assistance-programs.[1][5] 2. **Gather Documents**: - Proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs, W-2s, SSI/SSDI letters). - Proof of residency (utility bill, etc.). - Prescription from U.S. licensed provider.[5][10] 3. **Complete Application**: - **Patient**: Fill your section, sign, attach income proof. - **Doctor**: Complete medical section, sign, include prescription. - Download from myalcon.com or request via phone/fax.[5][8] 4. **Submit**: - Mail to: Alcon Patient Assistance Program, TB3 4, 6201 South Freeway, Fort Worth, TX 76134-0450. - Fax: **800-554-2660**. - Phone support: **800-222-8103 Ext. 1**.[5][10] 5. **Approval Notification**: Expect contact via mail/phone.[5] ## Timeline and Delivery Processing takes **2-4 weeks** after submission, subject to availability. Approved supply ships to **doctor's office or patient's home** (specify preference). Duration varies; reapplications needed.[5][10] ## If Denied or Need Alternatives - **Appeal**: Provide additional hardship documentation. - **Copay Options**: Savings Card for commercial insurance ($30); BlinkRx or Direct Access ($79 Medicare).[1][2] - **Other Resources**: RxHope.com, RxAssist.org, PAN Foundation, or Medicare Extra Help.[4] - **Glaucoma Alternatives**: Discuss with doctor (e.g., latanoprost generics, but Rhopressa is unique ROCK inhibitor).[4] ## Important Safety Information Rhopressa may cause **epithelial corneal edema** (honeycomb-like), especially with pre-existing issues. Report eye pain or vision changes to your doctor; symptoms often resolve upon stopping.[2] ## Disclaimer This guide synthesizes public info as of 2026; programs change. Contact Alcon directly for latest details. Not medical/financial advice—consult healthcare provider. Eligibility not guaranteed; resources limited.[1][5] (Word count: 912)

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026