Zaditor

Indicated For

allergic conjunctivitis

About This Medication

# Alcon Cares™ Patient Assistance Program Guide: How to Get Zaditor (ketotifen) at Low or No Cost Zaditor (ketotifen fumarate ophthalmic solution) is an over-the-counter (OTC) eye drop used to relieve itchy eyes caused by allergies. While it's available without a prescription, Alcon Laboratories, Inc., the manufacturer, offers the **Alcon Cares™ Patient Assistance Program** to provide eligible patients with free medication if they face financial hardship and lack insurance coverage.[1][2][6][9] ## About Zaditor and Why You Might Need Assistance **Zaditor** is a mast cell stabilizer and antihistamine eye drop that works by blocking histamine release and stabilizing cells involved in allergic reactions. It's indicated for temporary prevention of itching due to allergic conjunctivitis, such as from pollen, pet dander, or dust. Common side effects include mild stinging or burning upon application, headache, or eyelid inflammation. Store it at room temperature (4°-25°C or 39°-77°F), and use caution if nursing, as systemic absorption is unknown.[5] Eye allergies affect millions, causing redness, tearing, and intense itching that can disrupt daily life. Without insurance, a bottle might cost $15-30 out-of-pocket, which adds up with regular use (typically 1 drop per eye twice daily). If you're uninsured or underinsured and struggling financially, Alcon Cares™ can supply **Zaditor** at no cost, as it's listed among their OTC products like Systane and Pataday.[1][9] ## Who Qualifies for Alcon Cares™? This program targets U.S. residents experiencing financial hardship with **limited or no prescription insurance**. Key requirements include: - Treated by a U.S.-licensed healthcare provider who confirms you can't afford the medication.[2][9] - No private or public prescription coverage (e.g., Medicare, Medicaid), or proof that such programs cause financial hardship.[1][2][3] - Income at or below **200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)** based on household size.[3] **Income Eligibility Breakdown** | Household Size | Annual Income Limit (200% FPL, approx. 2026)* | |----------------|-----------------------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | $30,120 | | 2 (Couple) | $40,880 | | 3 | $51,640 | | 4 | $62,400 | | +1 per person | +$10,760 | *These are estimates based on 2025 FPL guidelines adjusted for inflation; verify current levels at the application stage, as they update annually. Program approval considers your doctor's assessment of need.[1][3] ## Insurance Requirements You generally must have **no prescription insurance** to qualify fully. If you have coverage but it causes hardship (e.g., high copays or denials), provide documentation. Medicare Part D patients may have separate copay options for other Alcon drugs (e.g., $60-79), but Alcon Cares™ is for uninsured/low-income cases. Private insurance patients should explore Alcon's Copay Assistance Program first.[1][2][7][8] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Contact Alcon or Your Doctor**: Call 1-800-222-8103 (Ext. 1 or 2) to request a faxed application, or download from myalcon.com/payment-assistance-programs/. Your doctor can initiate.[1][2][3][9] 2. **Complete the Form**: Patient section (personal info, income, household size) + doctor's section (prescription details, hardship confirmation). Sign both.[2][3][9] 3. **Gather Documents**: Proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs, W-2s), residency (ID/utility bill), no insurance proof (benefits summary or denial letter).[2][3] 4. **Submit**: Fax to 800-554-2660 or mail to Alcon Labs, TB3 4, 6201 South Freeway, Fort Worth, TX 76134-0450. Applications in Spanish available.[1][3] 5. **Wait for Approval**: Each case reviewed based on availability; doctor and patient notified.[2] ## Timeline and Delivery Processing takes 2-4 weeks, though urgent cases may be faster. Approved supply ships free to your **doctor's office or home**—choose what's easiest. Duration varies by need and resources; reapplications possible.[2][3] ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Copay Cards**: Commercial insurance? Use Alcon Patient Access Program (alconpatientaccessprogram.com, 1-800-587-9586) for low copays.[1][8] - **Medicare Support**: Part D? Check Direct Access coupons for select drugs.[1][7] - **Other Resources**: RxHope.com, NeedyMeds.org, or state programs. Generic ketotifen OTC available. Buy Zaditor at pharmacies (Walmart, Costco) for ~$20/bottle.[2] - **Discount Cards**: GoodRx, SingleCare for uninsured savings. ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on publicly available data as of 2026. Program details, income limits, and availability can change—**always verify with Alcon at 1-800-222-8103 or myalcon.com**. Not legal/medical advice; consult your doctor. Assistance subject to resources; not guaranteed. Alcon reserves rights to modify/terminate.[1][2][3][9] (Word count: 942)

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026