Tobradex

Indicated For

ophthalmic infection, inflammation

About This Medication

# Alcon Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Tobradex at Low or No Cost Tobradex (tobramycin/dexamethasone) is a prescription eye drop combining an antibiotic and a steroid, used to treat bacterial eye infections with inflammation, such as after eye surgery or for conditions like conjunctivitis. The **Alcon Patient Assistance Program** (also known as Alcon Cares) provides this medication at no cost to eligible uninsured or underinsured U.S. patients facing financial hardship.[1][2][6] ## Who Qualifies for the Program? This program helps patients who cannot afford their medications due to limited income and lack of coverage. Key eligibility criteria include: - **Residency**: You must be a U.S. resident.[1][6] - **Income Limits**: Household income at or below **200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**, adjusted for household size.[provided data] - **Insurance Status**: No private or public prescription insurance coverage, or documented financial hardship from local, state, or federal programs.[provided data][6] - **Prescription**: A valid prescription from a U.S.-licensed healthcare provider for Tobradex, who confirms you cannot afford it.[2][6] The program screens based on income, assets, household size, and medical needs. It's not for patients with any form of prescription coverage or who qualify for public programs like Medicaid.[2][6] ## About Tobradex **Tobradex** is an ophthalmic suspension that fights bacterial infections in the eye while reducing swelling and redness caused by inflammation. It's commonly prescribed for: - Bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye) - Prevention of infection after eye surgery - Other steroid-responsive inflammatory eye conditions **Important Safety Notes** (discuss with your doctor): - Use exactly as prescribed; typically 1-2 drops every 4-6 hours. - Do not use if you have viral/fungal eye infections, glaucoma, or allergies to ingredients. - Possible side effects: blurred vision, eye irritation, increased eye pressure. Always follow your doctor's instructions and report side effects.[1] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Eligibility is based on **200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)** for your household size. FPL guidelines are updated annually by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. Below is a sample table for 2026 (check current guidelines at aspe.hhs.gov/topics/poverty-economic-mobility/poverty-guidelines, as they may vary slightly by location like Alaska/Hawaii). | Household Size | 100% FPL (Annual) | 200% FPL Limit (Annual) | |----------------|-------------------|-------------------------| | 1 | $15,060 | **$30,120** | | 2 | $20,440 | **$40,880** | | 3 | $25,820 | **$51,640** | | 4 | $31,200 | **$62,400** | | +1 person | +$5,380 | **+$10,760** | *Notes*: Include all household income (wages, benefits, etc.). Provide proof like tax returns. Limits apply regardless of assets in some cases, but full screening occurs.[provided data][2] ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured Preferred**: Ideal for those with **no prescription insurance**.[6] - **Medicare/Medicaid**: Not eligible if covered; must prove denial or hardship from these programs.[provided data][1] - **Private Insurance**: Generally ineligible; explore Alcon's copay assistance first if you have coverage.[1] If you have any coverage, get a denial letter or proof of high costs making it unaffordable.[2] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Get a Prescription**: Ask your doctor for Tobradex and mention financial need. They complete part of the application.[2][6] 2. **Contact the Program**: Call **(800) 222-8103** to inquire, request the latest application, or check status. Hours may vary; providers can also call.[provided data][2][6] 3. **Complete the Application**: - **Patient/Guardian**: Fill Section 1 with personal details, household info, income, SSN (used for verification). - **Doctor**: Completes Section 2, confirms diagnosis, signs. - Mark if it's a new or renewal application.[2] 4. **Gather Documents**: - Proof of income (e.g., recent federal tax return, pay stubs for all household members). - Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill, ID). - Copy of prescription. - No originals needed; copies suffice.[provided data][2] 5. **Submit**: Fax to **800-554-2660** or mail to Alcon Cares, Inc., TB3-4, 6201 South Freeway, Fort Worth, TX. Applications can be copied; incomplete ones are rejected.[2] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: Not specified; call (800) 222-8103 for status updates. Expect screening first.[2] - **Approval Duration**: Valid for **one year** if approved.[2] - **Delivery**: Medication shipped free to you or your doctor; no charges to patients/providers.[2][6] ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Denial Reasons**: Income too high, insurance coverage, incomplete app. You'll get a letter explaining.[2] - **Reapply**: Fix issues and resubmit. - **Other Options**: - Alcon Copay Assistance or Direct Access for insured/Medicare patients.[1] - RxHope.com or Needymeds.org for similar programs. - Generic tobramycin/dexamethasone (cheaper alternatives; no biosimilars listed).[provided data] - State assistance, Medicaid, or low-income clinics. ## Refills and Reauthorization Approved for 1 year. For renewal: Check 'renewal' box on original Page 1, complete new Page 2 (doctor signs), resubmit with original pages 1-2. No full reapplication needed.[2] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on available program data as of 2026. Eligibility, rules, and contacts may change; always verify directly with Alcon at (800) 222-8103 or myalcon.com/payment-assistance-programs. Not medical/financial advice—consult your doctor and a professional for personalized guidance. Alcon reserves rights to modify/terminate the program. No guarantees of approval.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026