Bacitracin/Polymyxin B Can Cost $70 Without Insurance — Here's How to Pay Less

If you've been prescribed Bacitracin/Polymyxin B ophthalmic ointment for an eye infection, you may have been surprised by the price at the pharmacy counter. Without insurance, the typical retail cost for a 3.5-gram tube is around $50 to $70. During the ongoing shortage, some pharmacies may charge even more.

The good news? You don't have to pay full price. There are several ways to lower your out-of-pocket cost, whether you have insurance or not. This guide covers the best options available in 2026.

How Much Does Bacitracin/Polymyxin B Cost Without Insurance?

Here's what you can expect to pay without any discounts or insurance:

• Prescription ophthalmic ointment (3.5g tube): $50-$70 at most retail pharmacies
• Over-the-counter topical ointment (Polysporin): $5-$12 (Note: this is NOT the same as the prescription ophthalmic version and should NOT be used in the eyes)

The prescription ophthalmic version costs more because it's manufactured under sterile conditions specifically for use in the eyes. It's a generic medication, so there's no brand-name premium — the cost is driven by the manufacturing process and current supply constraints.

Coupons and Discount Cards

The fastest way to save on Bacitracin/Polymyxin B is to use a free prescription discount card. These work even if you don't have insurance — and sometimes the coupon price is lower than your insurance copay.

Best Discount Options

• SingleCare: As low as $14.74 for a 3.5g tube — that's up to 80% off the retail price of $69.65
• GoodRx: Prices typically range from $13-$20 depending on your pharmacy
• RxSaver: Comparable savings in the $15-$25 range
• Optum Perks: Often offers competitive pricing around $15-$22
• BuzzRx: Discount cards available at most major pharmacies

How to Use a Discount Coupon

1. Visit the discount card website (e.g., singlecare.com, goodrx.com)
2. Search for "Bacitracin Polymyxin B ophthalmic"
3. Compare prices at pharmacies near you
4. Select the best price and get your coupon (usually a printable card or digital code)
5. Present the coupon at the pharmacy when you pick up your prescription

Important: Discount coupons cannot be combined with insurance. Use whichever option gives you the lower price. Ask your pharmacist to compare both before you pay.

Patient Assistance Programs

Since Bacitracin/Polymyxin B is primarily available as a generic medication, there isn't a dedicated manufacturer savings program like you'd find for brand-name drugs. However, several resources can help if you're facing financial hardship:

NeedyMeds

NeedyMeds (needymeds.org) is a nonprofit that maintains a database of patient assistance programs, including programs for generic medications. They can help you find:

• State pharmaceutical assistance programs (SPAPs) that cover generics
• Disease-specific assistance funds
• Discount drug cards

RxAssist

RxAssist (rxassist.org) provides a comprehensive database of patient assistance programs. While most manufacturer programs focus on brand-name drugs, RxAssist also lists broader programs that may cover generic medications.

State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs

Many states offer programs that help low-income residents pay for prescription medications, including generics. Eligibility and coverage vary by state, but these programs can significantly reduce or eliminate your out-of-pocket costs. Check with your state's health department or visit NeedyMeds for a list of programs in your area.

Community Health Centers

Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) often have access to the 340B Drug Pricing Program, which allows them to purchase medications at deeply discounted prices. If you receive care at a community health center, ask about their pharmacy services — you may be able to get Bacitracin/Polymyxin B at a significantly reduced cost.

Other Ways to Save

Ask About Therapeutic Alternatives

If cost is a major concern, talk to your doctor about whether a less expensive alternative would work for your infection. Some options may cost less:

• Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment: Often available for $10-$20 with a coupon
• Ciprofloxacin ophthalmic drops: Can be as low as $10-$15 with a coupon
• Tobramycin ophthalmic drops: Typically $15-$25 with a coupon

See our full guide on alternatives to Bacitracin/Polymyxin B for more details.

Compare Prices Across Pharmacies

Prices for the same medication can vary dramatically between pharmacies — even within the same zip code. Before filling your prescription, compare prices at:

• Large chains (CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid)
• Warehouse clubs (Costco, Sam's Club — you don't need a membership to use the pharmacy)
• Grocery store pharmacies (Kroger, Publix, H-E-B)
• Independent pharmacies

Use Medfinder to check availability and compare your options.

Use Your Insurance Wisely

If you have health insurance, Bacitracin/Polymyxin B is typically covered as a generic on Tier 1 or Tier 2 of most formularies. Your copay should be in the range of $5-$20. However:

• Check if your plan requires a specific pharmacy (some plans have preferred pharmacy networks with lower copays)
• Compare your insurance copay to discount coupon prices — sometimes the coupon is cheaper
• If your plan requires prior authorization (rare for this medication), your doctor's office can handle the paperwork

Ask Your Pharmacist

Pharmacists are an underutilized resource for saving money. They can:

• Run your prescription through different discount cards to find the best price
• Check if a 90-day supply is cheaper per unit than a 30-day supply
• Suggest therapeutically equivalent alternatives that might be more affordable
• Help you apply for discount programs on the spot

Final Thoughts

Even during a shortage, you shouldn't have to choose between treating your eye infection and paying your bills. With discount coupons from SingleCare or GoodRx, you can bring the cost of Bacitracin/Polymyxin B down from $70 to as low as $13-$15. If that's still too much, talk to your doctor about more affordable alternatives, or explore patient assistance programs through NeedyMeds or your state's pharmaceutical assistance program.

Start by checking availability and pricing at pharmacies near you using Medfinder. Knowledge is your best tool for saving money on your prescriptions.