The High Retail Price of Rocklatan
For those without health insurance, the cost of prescription medications can be a significant burden. Rocklatan, a brand-name ophthalmic solution used to treat open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension, is a prime example of a medication with a high retail price. A 30-day supply of Rocklatan (netarsudil and latanoprost 0.02%/0.005%) can cost around $390, or nearly $4,800 annually, for those paying out of pocket. Rocklatan is a fixed-dose combination drug that works to lower intraocular pressure (IOP), but unlike its individual components, there is no generic equivalent available on the market.
Why is Rocklatan so expensive?
The high cost of Rocklatan can be attributed to a few factors:
- Brand-name status: As a brand-name drug under patent, its manufacturer has exclusive rights to sell it, which allows them to set a premium price.
- No generic version: A generic version of Rocklatan is not expected until at least 2034, which means there is no competition from cheaper alternatives that contain the exact same combination of active ingredients.
- Dual-action formula: The combination of two active ingredients—netarsudil (a Rho kinase inhibitor) and latanoprost (a prostaglandin F2α analogue)—in a single eye drop can add to the cost, although it can be more effective for some patients than using either medication alone.
Finding Savings Without Insurance
Paying the full retail price is not the only option for obtaining Rocklatan. Several resources and strategies can significantly lower the financial strain for uninsured individuals.
Discount Prescription Cards
Using a prescription discount card is one of the most accessible methods for reducing medication costs. These free-to-use programs can be found online and provide coupons that can be presented at the pharmacy to get a lower price. For example, discount cards from services like GoodRx, SingleCare, WellRx, and Optum Perks can bring the price of Rocklatan down considerably from the average retail cost.
Key steps for using discount cards:
- Visit the website of a discount card provider.
- Search for Rocklatan to find local pharmacy prices and coupons.
- Present the coupon code at the pharmacy to receive the discounted rate.
Manufacturer Patient Assistance Programs
For individuals with limited or no insurance coverage and experiencing financial hardship, manufacturer-sponsored patient assistance programs (PAPs) are an excellent option. Alcon, the manufacturer of Rocklatan, offers a program called Alcon Cares™.
To qualify for the Alcon Cares program, you must typically meet the following criteria:
- Be a resident of the United States.
- Have limited or no prescription coverage (private or public).
- Meet specific income requirements.
Exploring Alternative Medications
Discussing alternatives with your ophthalmologist is crucial. Depending on your medical needs, a different medication or combination of medications could offer comparable efficacy at a much lower price point, especially if generic options are available.
Comparison of Rocklatan and Alternatives
| Medication | Generic Availability | Dosing Frequency | Estimated Cash Price (per 30-day supply) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rocklatan (Netarsudil + Latanoprost) | No | Once daily (evening) | ~$390+ | Brand-name fixed combination with unique dual action. |
| Latanoprost (generic) | Yes | Once daily (evening) | ~$7-$80+ (with coupon) | Cheaper generic option, one of Rocklatan's components. |
| Rhopressa (Netarsudil) | No | Once daily (evening) | ~$300-$360+ (with coupon) | One of Rocklatan's components; a brand-name Rho kinase inhibitor. |
| Cosopt (Dorzolamide + Timolol) | Yes (generic available) | Twice daily | Low cost (generic version) | Generic combination drop, often less expensive than Rocklatan. |
| Combigan (Brimonidine + Timolol) | Yes (generic available) | Twice daily | Low cost (generic version) | Generic combination drop, may be a more affordable alternative. |
Discussion with Your Healthcare Provider
If the cost of Rocklatan is a concern, it is essential to have an open and honest conversation with your doctor or ophthalmologist. They can help you evaluate your options and determine the best course of action for your specific needs.
Here are some topics to discuss:
- Generic Latanoprost: Inquire if using generic latanoprost alone is sufficient to manage your intraocular pressure. It is a much cheaper option and is one of the two active ingredients in Rocklatan.
- Other Combinations: Ask if other generic combination eye drops, such as Cosopt or Combigan, could be effective for you.
- Samples and Discounts: Your doctor's office may have free samples from the manufacturer or be aware of local pharmacy discounts.
- Financial Assistance: The healthcare provider can also help you understand and apply for the Alcon Cares patient assistance program.
Conclusion: Navigating Costs for Your Eye Health
When faced with the high cash price of Rocklatan, it is important to remember that there are multiple pathways to making your treatment affordable. The initial retail cost of nearly $400 for a one-month supply is a significant expense, but it is not the final word on what you have to pay. By proactively exploring prescription discount cards, applying for manufacturer assistance, and discussing generic alternatives with your doctor, you can effectively manage the financial aspect of your eye care. It is imperative not to discontinue your medication without first consulting a healthcare professional to ensure your condition is managed safely and effectively.
For more information on other medication assistance programs, you can visit the Glaucoma Research Foundation website.(https://glaucoma.org/treatment/resources/financial-assistance)
Additional ways to save
- Use mail-order pharmacies: Some mail-order pharmacies may offer a lower price than local retail pharmacies, especially for 90-day supplies.
- Explore other generic options: Some patients may benefit from a combination therapy using two separate, lower-cost generic drops, such as generic latanoprost and generic timolol.
- Check pharmacy prices: Even with a discount card, prices can vary significantly between pharmacies, so it's always wise to shop around.
