How to Find a Doctor Who Can Prescribe Durezol Near You [2026 Guide]

Durezol (difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion 0.05%) is a prescription-only medication — you cannot purchase it over the counter, and it must be prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider. Unlike many common medications, Durezol is primarily prescribed for conditions that require specialized eye care, so you typically need to see an eye doctor to get a prescription.

This guide explains who can prescribe Durezol, how to find the right doctor, and what to expect at your appointment.

Who Can Prescribe Durezol?

Durezol is not a controlled substance and has no DEA scheduling. However, because it's used for eye conditions that require diagnosis and monitoring with specialized equipment, it is almost always prescribed by an eye care professional. Prescribers who routinely prescribe Durezol include:

Ophthalmologists: Medical doctors (MD or DO) specializing in eye care. Ophthalmologists perform cataract surgery and other eye procedures and are the primary prescribers of Durezol.

Optometrists with therapeutic licenses: In most U.S. states, licensed optometrists (ODs) can prescribe topical ophthalmic medications including Durezol, particularly for managing post-surgical inflammation and uveitis.

Retina specialists and uveitis specialists: For patients with uveitis affecting deeper structures of the eye, a uveitis specialist or retina specialist ophthalmologist may manage care and prescribe Durezol.

Note: The FDA requires that the initial prescription for Durezol and any renewal beyond one bottle be made by a physician after examination of the patient with slit-lamp magnification. This means a proper eye exam is required — telehealth alone is generally not sufficient for initiating Durezol therapy.

When Is Durezol Typically Prescribed?

There are two main situations in which you would receive a Durezol prescription:

After eye surgery (most commonly cataract surgery): Your surgeon will typically prescribe Durezol or a similar anti-inflammatory eye drop to control inflammation during the healing period. You don't need to "find" a doctor for this — your surgeon will prescribe it.

For anterior uveitis: If you have symptoms of uveitis — eye redness, pain, blurred vision, or light sensitivity — you need to see an ophthalmologist or optometrist who can perform a slit-lamp examination to diagnose the condition and prescribe appropriate treatment.

How to Find an Eye Doctor Near You

Here are the most effective ways to find an ophthalmologist or optometrist who can evaluate and treat your condition:

Ask your primary care doctor for a referral. Most insurance plans require or prefer a referral from your PCP. This also helps ensure you're seeing an in-network provider.

Search your insurance provider directory. Log in to your insurance plan's website and use the "find a doctor" tool to search for ophthalmologists or optometrists in your network.

Use the AAO or AOA locators. The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO.org) and American Optometric Association (AOA.org) offer doctor locators on their websites.

For uveitis care: find a uveitis specialist. If your uveitis is severe or recurrent, you may benefit from seeing a uveitis specialist (a sub-specialty within ophthalmology). The American Uveitis Society has a member directory on their website.

What to Tell Your Doctor

When you see your eye doctor, be prepared to share:

Your current symptoms (eye redness, pain, blurred vision, sensitivity to light)

Any history of eye surgery, including when and what type

Any previous diagnosis of uveitis and prior treatments

Any history of glaucoma or elevated eye pressure (important for steroid prescribing decisions)

Your insurance coverage and any financial concerns about medication cost

Can I Get Durezol via Telehealth?

Generally, no. Durezol prescribing requires a slit-lamp examination — specialized equipment that allows the doctor to examine the structures of the eye under magnification. This cannot be done via video telehealth. If you've already been diagnosed and are renewing a Durezol prescription for a known ongoing condition, some providers may handle follow-up remotely, but initial prescribing almost always requires an in-person visit.

Want to learn more about Durezol before your appointment? Read our guide: What Is Durezol? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026.