Tobradex ST

Indicated For

bacterial eye infections, ocular inflammation

About This Medication

# Alcon Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Tobradex ST at Low or No Cost Tobradex ST (tobramycin/dexamethasone ophthalmic suspension) is a prescription eye drop combining an antibiotic and a steroid, used to treat bacterial eye infections with inflammation, such as conjunctivitis. The **Alcon Patient Assistance Program** (also known as Alcon Cares) provides this medication at low or no cost to eligible US patients facing financial hardship who lack prescription insurance coverage[1][2][7]. ## About Tobradex ST **Tobradex ST** is a sterile eye drop suspension prescribed for ocular inflammatory conditions where a corticosteroid is indicated and there's a risk of bacterial infection, or for established bacterial infections with inflammation. It contains **tobramycin** (an aminoglycoside antibiotic that kills bacteria) and **dexamethasone** (a corticosteroid that reduces swelling, redness, and itching). Administer as directed by your doctor, typically 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 4-6 hours, tapering as symptoms improve. Common side effects include temporary blurred vision, eye discomfort, or increased intraocular pressure; contact your doctor for severe reactions. Always complete the full course to prevent resistance[1][2]. This guide explains how to access **Tobradex ST** through the program, designed for patients unable to afford it without help. Alcon commits to simplifying access with support and savings[1][4]. ## Who Qualifies? Eligibility focuses on financial need, residency, and insurance status: - **US residents** only (patients and legal guardians). - **Limited or no prescription insurance** (private or public, including Medicare Part D; does not cover those qualifying for public programs). - **Income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**, based on household size. - Treated by a US-licensed physician who confirms the patient cannot afford the medication. - No product purchase requirements; free for approved patients[1][2][7]. **Notes:** Applications screen for income, assets, household info, and medical details. Incomplete applications are rejected[2]. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Qualify if your household income is **up to 200% of the FPL**. Use the table below for 2026 guidelines (FPL updates annually; verify current levels via HHS.gov or call the program). Exact individual/couple/family thresholds not specified—calculate based on total household income. | Household Size | 100% FPL (approx.) | 200% FPL Limit (approx.) | |----------------|---------------------|---------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | $15,060 | **$30,120** | | 2 (Couple) | $20,440 | **$40,880** | | 3 | $25,820 | **$51,640** | | 4 | $31,200 | **$62,400** | | +1 person | +$5,380 | **+$10,760** | *Table based on 2026 continental US FPL estimates; Alaska/Hawaii higher. Include all household income sources. Provide proof like tax returns[2].* ## Insurance Requirements You must have **limited or no prescription coverage**. This program is **not for commercially insured patients** (use Alcon's copay assistance instead) or those eligible for Medicare Part D/public programs. Medicare patients without Part D coverage may explore separate Alcon coupons, but Patient Assistance requires no coverage[1][6][7]. Notify your plan if applicable[6]. ## Step-by-Step Application Process The program uses **multiple application methods**: phone, fax, or mail. No online portal specified[2]. 1. **Contact for Application:** Call **(800) 222-8103** (opt. 2) to inquire, request the form, or check status. Your doctor can also request it[2][7]. Spanish available[1]. 2. **Complete Section 1 (Patient/Legal Guardian):** Provide personal details, household info, income/assets, Social Security number, and check boxes for new/renewal. List **Tobradex ST** in products section[2]. 3. **Doctor Completes Section 2:** Healthcare provider verifies medical need, signs, and agrees not to market the program aggressively[2]. 4. **Gather Documents:** Attach **proof of income** (e.g., recent Federal tax return or equivalents for all household members) and **completed, signed application**[2][3]. 5. **Submit:** - **Fax:** 800-554-2660 - **Mail:** Alcon Cares, Inc., TB3-4, 6201 South Freeway, Fort Worth, TX (zip not specified—confirm via phone)[2]. - Doctor-signed forms can be faxed/mailed directly[5][7]. 6. **Wait for Approval:** Approved for **one year**[2]. **Tips:** Use legible handwriting; copy blank forms if needed. No charges to patients/doctors[2]. ## Timeline and Delivery **Processing time** not specified—call (800) 222-8103 for status. Approvals valid **one year**; medication **shipped to doctor's office or patient's home** free of charge[2]. Expect delays for incomplete apps[2]. Support hours: Mon-Fri 8AM-5PM CST at +1 800-757-9195 (general help)[1]. ## Alternatives if Denied - Receive a **letter explaining reasons** (e.g., income, insurance)[2]. - **Refile** with corrections or new proof. - **Copay Assistance** for private insurance[1]. - **BlinkRx** or pharmacy discounts. - **Medicare Coupons** for specific Alcon drugs (not Tobradex ST)[1][6]. - Other PAPs via RxHope, NeedyMeds, or RxResource[2][7]. - **Biosimilars/Generics:** None listed for Tobradex ST. - Doctor may sample or suggest alternatives like generic tobramycin/dexamethasone. ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on available program details as of 2026. Eligibility, terms, and FPL change; **verify with Alcon at (800) 222-8103**. Alcon reserves rights to modify/terminate. Not legal/medical advice—consult your doctor. Program not guaranteed; incomplete apps denied. Alcon not liable for errors[1][2]. (Word count: 1028)

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026