What Is Lacrisert? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Lacrisert is a prescription ophthalmic insert used to treat moderate to severe dry eye disease. Unlike eye drops that evaporate quickly, Lacrisert is a small, rod-shaped insert placed inside the lower eyelid once a day, where it slowly dissolves to provide sustained lubrication for up to 24 hours. This article covers everything patients need to know about Lacrisert in 2026.

What Is Lacrisert?

Lacrisert is the brand name for hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) ophthalmic insert, 5 mg. It is a sterile, translucent, rod-shaped insert made from a water-soluble polymer called hydroxypropyl cellulose. It was first developed in the 1970s and has been FDA-approved for decades. Lacrisert is manufactured by Renaissance Lakewood, LLC and distributed by Bausch + Lomb (Bausch Health US, LLC).

There is no FDA-approved generic version of Lacrisert as of 2026. It is a brand-only product.

What Is Lacrisert Used For?

Lacrisert is FDA-approved to treat the following conditions:

Moderate to severe dry eye syndromes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca): This is the most common indication. Dry eye is a chronic condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, causing symptoms like burning, stinging, grittiness, and light sensitivity.

Exposure keratitis: Inflammation or damage to the cornea caused by incomplete eyelid closure or prolonged eye opening (as may occur with Bell's palsy or during certain medical procedures).

Decreased corneal sensitivity: Reduced sensation in the cornea, which may occur after certain surgeries or with specific diseases that impair normal blink reflexes.

Recurrent corneal erosions: A condition in which the outer layer of the cornea repeatedly breaks down, causing pain and vision disturbances, often upon waking.

What Does Lacrisert Come In?

Lacrisert comes in one dosage form only:

Hydroxypropyl cellulose ophthalmic insert, 5 mg. Sterile, translucent, rod-shaped.

Package size: 60 unit-dose inserts per package, with 2 reusable applicators and a storage container. Each applicator is designed for placing the insert into the inferior cul-de-sac of the eye.

How Do You Use Lacrisert?

Lacrisert is placed once daily in the inferior cul-de-sac — the pocket between your lower eyelid and your eyeball. Here is how it works:

Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the insert.

Peel open one foil unit-dose packet and place the insert onto the dry tip of the applicator.

Pull down your lower eyelid gently to expose the cul-de-sac (the lower eyelid pocket).

Place the insert into the cul-de-sac with the applicator — not on the cornea itself.

Release the lower eyelid. If vision becomes blurred, apply 1–2 drops of preservative-free artificial tears to help the insert dissolve more evenly.

Some patients require twice-daily dosing if symptoms are not adequately controlled with once-daily use. Discuss this with your prescriber. The insert should dissolve completely within the day and does not need to be removed.

How Much Does Lacrisert Cost?

Without insurance, Lacrisert is expensive. A 60-count package retails for approximately $691. With a GoodRx coupon, the price drops to roughly $578–$595 at participating pharmacies. There is no generic version, so these are the primary cash-pay options.

Some Medicare Part D and commercial insurance plans cover Lacrisert, often at Tier 4. Prior authorization is frequently required. Bausch + Lomb's Patient Assistance Program (1-800-323-0000) may provide Lacrisert at no cost to eligible uninsured patients with limited income.

Is Lacrisert a Controlled Substance?

No. Lacrisert is not a controlled substance and has no DEA schedule. It can be prescribed, dispensed, and transferred between pharmacies without the additional restrictions that apply to controlled substances.

Is Lacrisert Easy to Find at a Pharmacy?

Not always. Lacrisert has had repeated supply shortages since 2020. While the national shortage has resolved, many pharmacies do not stock it routinely. Using medfinder to check pharmacy availability near you before making a trip can save significant time.

For more information, see: Lacrisert Side Effects: What to Expect and When to Call Your Doctor.