Natacyn Is Expensive — But There Are Ways to Save

If you've been prescribed Natacyn (Natamycin 5% ophthalmic suspension) for a fungal eye infection, you may have experienced sticker shock. A single 15 mL bottle of Natacyn can cost $400 to $700 without insurance, making it one of the more expensive eye drops on the market.

As the only FDA-approved antifungal eye drop in the United States with no generic alternative, Natacyn's pricing reflects its monopoly market position. But that doesn't mean you're stuck paying full price. This guide covers every strategy available to reduce your out-of-pocket cost in 2026.

What Does Natacyn Cost Without Insurance?

Here's what you can expect to pay without insurance coverage:

• Retail cash price: $400-$700 per 15 mL bottle
• Typical treatment: 1-2 bottles over 14-21 days
• Total treatment cost: $400-$1,400 without any discounts

Prices vary by pharmacy, with specialty pharmacies and hospital outpatient pharmacies sometimes offering different pricing than retail chains. Always compare prices at multiple pharmacies before filling.

Coupons and Prescription Discount Cards

Prescription discount cards can sometimes reduce the cost of brand-name medications. For Natacyn, the savings may be more limited than for generic drugs, but it's worth checking:

Discount Card Options

• SingleCare — Check singlecare.com for current Natacyn pricing at pharmacies near you
• GoodRx — Visit goodrx.com to compare prices and find available coupons
• RxSaver — Search at rxsaver.com for pharmacy price comparisons
• Optum Perks — Check perks.optum.com for potential savings

Important note: Because Natacyn is a single-source branded product with no generic, discount card savings may be modest compared to what you'd see with generic medications. Savings of $20-$80 are possible but not guaranteed.

How to Use a Discount Card

1. Search for Natacyn on the discount card website
2. Compare prices at pharmacies near you
3. Show the coupon or card to your pharmacist at pickup
4. You cannot combine discount cards with insurance — use whichever gives you the lower price

Patient Assistance Programs

If you're uninsured or underinsured, patient assistance programs (PAPs) may help you get Natacyn at reduced cost or even free.

Alcon Patient Assistance

Alcon Laboratories, the manufacturer of Natacyn, may offer patient assistance for eligible individuals. Contact Alcon directly:

• Phone: 1-800-757-9195
• Ask about patient assistance or indigent care programs for Natacyn
• Eligibility typically requires proof of income and insurance status

NeedyMeds

NeedyMeds is a nonprofit that maintains a database of patient assistance programs. Search for "Natamycin" or "Natacyn" to find current programs. They also offer a free drug discount card.

RxAssist

RxAssist provides a comprehensive database of pharmaceutical company assistance programs, state programs, and other resources for patients who can't afford their medications.

RxHope

RxHope helps connect patients with manufacturer assistance programs and can help navigate the application process.

Insurance Coverage Strategies

If you have health insurance, Natacyn may be covered — but expect some hurdles:

Prior Authorization

Most insurance plans require prior authorization for Natacyn due to its specialty drug status and high cost. Here's how to navigate this:

1. Ask your ophthalmologist to submit the prior authorization at the time of prescribing
2. Ensure the PA request includes the clinical diagnosis and the fact that Natacyn is the only FDA-approved option
3. Request an expedited review for urgent/sight-threatening conditions
4. If denied, ask your doctor to file an appeal

Medical vs. Pharmacy Benefit

If your ophthalmologist dispenses Natacyn in-office, it may be covered under your medical benefit rather than your pharmacy benefit. This can sometimes result in better coverage, especially if you have a high pharmacy deductible.

Specialty Tier Copay

When covered under the pharmacy benefit, Natacyn typically falls on a specialty tier with copays ranging from $50 to $150 or more, depending on your plan.

Other Ways to Save

Ask About Compounded Alternatives

If cost is a major barrier, talk to your ophthalmologist about compounded antifungal alternatives. Compounded Voriconazole 1% or Amphotericin B eye drops typically cost $50 to $200 — significantly less than Natacyn.

While these aren't FDA-approved ophthalmic formulations, they are widely used in clinical practice and may be clinically appropriate for your infection.

Compare Pharmacy Prices

Natacyn prices can vary significantly between pharmacies. Use Medfinder to check availability and compare pricing at pharmacies in your area. Hospital outpatient pharmacies and independent pharmacies may offer different pricing than chains.

Ask About Partial Fills or Smaller Quantities

Natacyn comes in a 15 mL bottle. If your treatment course is short or your doctor can monitor closely, discuss whether a single bottle will suffice rather than filling two.

Check State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs

Some states offer pharmaceutical assistance programs for residents who meet income requirements. Check with your state's health department or insurance exchange for available programs.

Cost Comparison: Natacyn vs. Alternatives

• Natacyn (Natamycin 5%): $400-$700 per bottle
• Compounded Voriconazole 1%: $50-$150 per bottle
• Compounded Amphotericin B: $75-$200 per bottle
• Compounded Fluconazole 0.2%: $50-$125 per bottle

Discuss with your ophthalmologist whether a compounded alternative is appropriate for your specific infection before making a decision based on cost alone.

Final Thoughts

Natacyn's high cost is a real barrier for many patients, but you have options:

• Check discount cards like SingleCare, GoodRx, and RxSaver for potential savings
• Apply for patient assistance through Alcon, NeedyMeds, or RxAssist if you're uninsured
• Work with your insurer on prior authorization and appeals
• Ask about compounded alternatives at $50-$200 vs. $400-$700
• Compare prices using Medfinder to find the best deal near you

Don't let cost prevent you from treating a fungal eye infection. These infections can cause permanent vision loss if left untreated. Start with the resources above and talk to your doctor about the most affordable effective option for your situation.

For help finding Natacyn in stock, visit our guide: How to Find Natacyn in Stock Near You.