Tobradex can cost $200-$350 without insurance. Learn how to save with coupons, discount cards, generics, and patient assistance programs in 2026.
If you've just been prescribed Tobradex eye drops and looked up the price, you might be in for some sticker shock. Brand-name Tobradex can cost $200 to $350 for a single 5 mL bottle without insurance. That's a lot to pay for a medication you may only need for a week or two.
The good news? There are multiple ways to significantly reduce what you pay for Tobradex or its generic equivalent. This guide covers every major savings option available in 2026 — from discount cards to patient assistance programs.
Here's what you'll typically pay at the pharmacy counter without insurance or a discount card:
These prices vary by pharmacy and location. The gap between brand and generic is significant — and it's the first place to look for savings.
The single most impactful thing you can do to save money on Tobradex is to use the generic version. Generic Tobramycin/Dexamethasone ophthalmic suspension contains the exact same active ingredients (Tobramycin 0.3% and Dexamethasone 0.1%) and is FDA-approved as therapeutically equivalent.
With a discount card, generic Tobramycin/Dexamethasone costs as little as $28 to $55 — a savings of up to $300 compared to brand-name Tobradex.
Ask your doctor to write the prescription for the generic, or ask your pharmacist if they can substitute. In most states, pharmacists can automatically substitute unless the doctor specifies "dispense as written."
Even if you have insurance, a discount card may beat your copay — especially for the generic. Here are the most popular options:
GoodRx is one of the most widely used prescription discount services. As of early 2026, GoodRx shows generic Tobramycin/Dexamethasone prices starting at approximately $28 for a 5 mL bottle. Simply search for your medication on goodrx.com, compare prices at pharmacies near you, and show the coupon at the counter.
SingleCare offers competitive pricing on generic Tobradex, with prices around $31 to $32 for a 5 mL bottle at many pharmacies including CVS, Walmart, and Walgreens. You can get a free discount card at singlecare.com.
Several other services offer similar savings:
Pro tip: Prices vary between discount cards and between pharmacies. Always compare at least 2-3 services before filling your prescription. Sometimes Walmart or Costco pharmacies offer the lowest prices.
If your doctor specifically prescribes brand-name Tobradex (not the generic), there are manufacturer programs that may help:
Novartis offers a co-pay savings card for eligible commercially insured patients. This can reduce your out-of-pocket cost on brand-name Tobradex. Check eligibility and activate your card at copay.novartispharma.com.
Important: Co-pay cards typically cannot be used with Medicare, Medicaid, or other government insurance programs.
Alcon (which distributes Tobradex) offers payment assistance programs for eligible patients. Visit myalcon.com/payment-assistance-programs for details and to check eligibility.
If you don't have insurance and can't afford your medication, patient assistance programs (PAPs) may provide Tobradex for free or at a significantly reduced cost:
Novartis offers a comprehensive patient assistance program for qualifying low-income, uninsured patients. You can apply through your doctor's office or directly through the Novartis website at novartis.com/us-en/patients-and-caregivers/patient-assistance.
RxHope (rxhope.com) acts as a patient advocate and can help you navigate the application process for manufacturer assistance programs, including those offered by Alcon/Novartis.
NeedyMeds (needymeds.org) is a nonprofit that maintains a comprehensive database of patient assistance programs, discount cards, and other savings resources. Search for Tobradex or Tobramycin/Dexamethasone to see all available options.
RxAssist (rxassist.org) is another database of patient assistance programs that can help you find programs for ophthalmic medications.
Prices for the same medication can vary dramatically between pharmacies — even those in the same neighborhood. Use Medfinder to find pharmacies with Tobradex in stock, then compare prices using GoodRx or SingleCare.
Depending on your condition, the Tobradex ointment may be an option. While the brand ointment is expensive ($290+), your doctor may be able to prescribe a generic ointment formulation that costs less.
If you have insurance:
Many insurance plans offer lower copays for mail-order prescriptions. If your condition isn't urgent, a mail-order pharmacy may save you money on Tobradex.
No one should skip their prescribed eye medication because of cost. With generic options as low as $28, discount cards from multiple providers, manufacturer co-pay cards, and patient assistance programs for those who qualify, there are real ways to make Tobradex affordable.
Here's your quick action plan:
For help finding Tobradex at a pharmacy near you, visit our guide: How to Find Tobradex in Stock Near You. And to learn more about this medication, check out What Is Tobradex? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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