Pharmacy Benefit Updates

Changes to Our Specialty Pharmacy Network for Fertility Medications

Beginning August 31, 2020, AcariaHealth™ Fertility will no longer participate in our specialty pharmacy network for fertility medications. This change applies to plans with the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts formulary, and the National Preferred Formulary (NPF).

Members will be able to complete their current course of treatment with AcariaHealth Fertility; however, specialty fertility medications purchased through AcariaHealth Fertility after August 31, 2020, will no longer be covered. We’ll contact members who fill their prescriptions at AcariaHealth Fertility to let them know that the pharmacy is leaving our specialty fertility network, and help them transition to another in-network specialty pharmacy for fertility medications. This change only applies to AcariaHealth Fertility and our specialty fertility network. AcariaHealth Fertility’s parent company, AcariaHealth, will remain in our specialty pharmacy network.

Specialty pharmacies provide specialty medications that are used to treat certain complex health conditions. For more information about specialty medications, use our Medication Lookup tool.

 If you have any questions, please call Member Service at the number on the front of your ID card.

Upcoming Changes to the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Formulary, Effective October 1, 2020

Effective October 1, 2020, we're updating our formulary (list of covered medications) for medical plans with pharmacy benefits, as well as Medex^®´* plans with a three-tier pharmacy benefit. This update includes changes that were originally scheduled to go into effect on May 1 and July 1. As part of this update, certain medications may:

• No longer be covered (exceptions may be granted)
• Be excluded from coverage (exceptions won’t be granted)
• Switch tiers
• Have new quantity or dosing limits
• Require step therapy

*This doesn’t include Medex 2 plans with Blue MedicareRx™ (PDP) prescription drug coverage.

Medications No Longer Covered Starting October 1, 2020

After carefully reviewing each medication's cost and their clinically appropriate covered alternatives, we've removed the medications listed below from our list of covered medications. However, a doctor may request an exception if these medications are medically necessary. If the exception is approved, you’ll pay the highest-tier cost.

Medication Class	Medication Name	Covered Alternative
Acne (topical)	Differin 0.3% gel pump	Adapalene 0.3% gel
	Retin-A cream	Tretinoin cream
Acne (topical)/Psoriasis	Fabior 0.1% foam Tazorac 0.5% and 0.1% cream Tazorac 0.5% and 0.1% gel	Tazarotene
Analgesics (non-narcotic)	Tramadol ER capsules	Tramadol ER tablets
Anticonvulsants	Depakote Depakote ER Depakote Sprinkle	Divalproex Divalproex ER Divalproex Sprinkle
	Keppra	Levetiracetam Levetiracetam ER
	Lamictal Lamictal ODT Lamictal XR	Lamotrigine Lamotrigine ODT Lamotrigine XR
	Topamax	Topiramate
	Trileptal	Oxcarbazepine
	Zonegran	Zonisamide
Antidepressants	Fluoxetine tablets Venlafaxine ER tablets	Fluoxetine capsules Venlafaxine ER capsules
Antidepressants/ Nerve Pain	Savella	Duloxetine Pregabalin
Antineoplastics	Arimidex	Anastrozole
	Aromasin	Exemestane
	Gleevec	Imatinib
Aspirin Products	Duralaza	81 mg aspirin1 Over-the-counter 325 mg aspirin2
Blood Pressure	Nitro-Dur 0.1 mg/hr patch Nitro-Dur 0.2 mg/hr patch Nitro-Dur 0.3 mg/hr patch Nitro-Dur 0.4 mg/hr patch Nitro-Dur 0.6 mg/hr patch Nitro-Dur 0.8 mg/hr patch	Nitroglycerin patch
Chemotherapy/ Protective Agent	Fusilev	Levoleucovorin
Diabetes	Invokamet Invokamet XR Invokana	Farxiga Jardiance Synjardy Synjardy XR Xigduo XR
Erectile Dysfunction (oral)	Cialis3 Levitra3 Staxyn3 Stendra3 Viagra3	Sildenafil4
Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment	Zelnorm	Amitiza Linzess Motegrity
Migraine	Imitrex 6mg/0.5ml injection	Sumatriptan 6mg/0.5ml injection
Multiple Sclerosis Treatment	Copaxone	Glatiramer Glatopa
Ophthalmic Combinations	Tobradex Zylet	Neomycin/­Bacitracin/­Polymyxin B/Hydrocortisone, Neomycin/­Polymyxin B/Dexamethasone, Neomycin/­Polymyxin B/Hydrocortisone, Sulfacetamide/­Prednisolone, Tobramycin/­Dexamethasone
Smoking Cessation	Zyban 150 mg	Bupropion SA 150 mg
Thrombocytopenia Treatment	Mulpleta	Doptelet

1. This over-the-counter product is eligible for $0 copay with a prescription, under the Affordable Care Act.
2. This over-the-counter product is excluded from coverage. Exceptions won’t be accepted.
3. The quantity limit for this medication is 4 units per prescription, unless an exception is approved for more.
4. The quantity limit is increasing from 4 to 6 tablets per prescription on October 1, 2020.

Compounded Medications Excluded from Coverage

The following compounded medications will be excluded from our pharmacy benefit, effective October 1, 2020. If any of these medications is used as an ingredient in a compounded medication in the exact strength and form listed below, you may be responsible for the full cost of the medication. This change will apply to all medical plans, group Medex* plans with pharmacy benefits, and Managed Blue for Seniors with pharmacy benefits. Formulary exceptions won’t be accepted for these medications.

Medication Class	Medication Name	Strength and Form
Anticonvulsants	Carbamazepine	100 mg chew tablet 200 mg tablet
Antidepressants	Amitriptyline	10 mg tablets 25 mg tablets 50 mg tablets 75 mg tablets 100 mg tablets 150 mg tablets
	Clomipramine	25 mg capsules 50 mg capsules 75 mg capsules
	Imipramine Pamoate	75 mg capsules 100 mg capsules 125 mg capsules 150 mg capsules
Nitroglycerin	Nitro-Bid	2% ointment

Medications Switching Tiers

When the cost of a medication changes, we may move the medication to a different tier. The medications listed below are moving to a higher tier under certain pharmacy plans and may cost more.

Medication Class	Medication Name	2020 Tier for members with a three-tier pharmacy benefit	2020 Tier for members with a four-tier pharmacy benefit	2020 Tier for members with a five-tier pharmacy benefit	2020 Tier for members with a six-tier pharmacy benefit
Erectile Dysfunction (oral)	Tadalafil	Tier 3a	Tier 4b	Tier 3a	Tier 4b
Erectile Dysfunction (oral)	Vardenafil	Tier 3a	Tier 4b	Tier 3a	Tier 4b

a. This medication was previously covered at Tier 1.
b. This medication was previously covered at Tier 2.

Medications with New Quality Care Dosing Limits

To make sure that the quantity and dose of a medication meet the Food and Drug Administration, manufacturer, and clinical recommendations, some of the medications listed below now require Quality Care Dosing (QCD), while the QCD limit has changed for others.

Medication Class	Medication Name	Quality Care Dosing Limit per prescription
Antibiotics (topical)	Clindamycin Phosphate 1% foam	100 GM
	Clindamycin Phosphate 1% gel	150 GM
	Clindamycin Phosphate 1% lotion	120 ml
	Clindamycin Phosphate 1% solution	60 ml
	Clindamycin Phosphate 2% cream	80 GM
	Mupirocin 2% cream	60 GM
	Mupirocin 2% ointment	44 GM
Anticholinergics (inhaled)	Tudorza Pressair 400 mcg inhaler	2 inhalers
	Yupelri 175 mcg/3 ml solution	30 vials
Antifungals (topical)	Econazole Nitrate 1% cream	170 GM
	Ketoconazole 2% cream	120 GM
	Ketoconazole 2% shampoo	240 ml
Antimuscarinics (inhaled)	Spiriva Handihaler 18 mcg inhaler	30 capsules
Beta Agonists (long-acting, inhaled)	Brovana 15 mcg/2 ml solution	120 ml
	Perforomist 20 mcg/2 ml solution	60 ml
Combinations (inhaled)	Stiolto RespiMat inhaler	1 inhalation cartridge (4 GM)
Corticosteroids (inhaled)	Alvesco 80 mcg inhaler	6.1 GM (1 inhaler)
	Asmanex Twisthaler 110 mcg, 220 mcg inhaler	1 inhaler
	Flovent Diskus 50 mcg, 100 mcg, 250 mcg	60 blisters
	Flovent HFA 44 mcg, 110 mcg, 220 mcg	1 inhaler
	Pulmicort Flexhaler 90 mcg inhaler	1 inhaler
	Pulmicort Flexhaler 180 mcg inhaler	2 inhalers
	Pulmicort Respule 0.25 mg/2 ml, 0.5 mg/2 ml	60 ml (30 ampules)
	Pulmicort Respule 1 mg/2 ml	30 ml (15 ampules)
	QVAR 40 mcg inhaler	10.6 GM (1 inhaler)
SSRI (Antidepressants)	Prozac 40 mg, Fluoxetine 40 mg	Limits removed1
	Zoloft 100 mg, Sertraline 100 mg

1. Quality Care Dosing limits were removed for these medications on July 1, 2020.

Medications That Now Require Step Therapy

Step Therapy is a key part of our Prior Authorization program. It enables us to help doctors provide members with an appropriate and affordable medication treatment. Before coverage is allowed for certain costly “second-step” medications, we require that members first try an effective, but less expensive, “first-step” medication. Some medications may have multiple steps.

The following medications now require Step Therapy. This change only applies to new prescriptions. Members with a claim for any of these medications within the previous 130 days can continue their therapy without interruption.

Medication Class	Step 1 Medication	Step 2 Medication	Step 3 Medication
Migraine Treatment	Naratriptan Rizatriptan Sumatriptan	Almotriptan Eletriptan Frovatriptan Sumatriptan/­Naproxen Zolmitriptan Zomig nasal spray	Amerge Axert Frova Imitrex Imitrex Injection Maxalt Maxalt MLT Relpax Treximet Zomig tablets

Looking for More Information?

For more information about any of these medications, use the Medication Lookup tool.

Questions?

If you have any questions, please call Member Service at the number on the front of your ID card.

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Coverage Update for Truvada

On July 1, 2020, we’ll begin covering Truvada, an HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medication, at no additional cost for members who aren’t currently filling other HIV medications. Members taking other HIV medications, or are switching from an HIV medication to Truvada, will have to pay their usual out-of-pocket costs, including copays, co-insurance, and deductibles. This change applies to new prescriptions and refills, and to plans with either the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Formulary or National Preferred Formulary. However, the change doesn’t apply to grandfathered plans that don’t comply with the Affordable Care Act.

When the generic version of Truvada is released, we’ll start covering the generic version (instead of Truvada) at no additional cost for members who aren’t currently filling other HIV medications. At that time, members who continue to take Truvada, whether they’re taking additional HIV medications or not, will have to pay their usual out-of-pocket costs, including copays, co-insurance, and deductibles. 

If you have any questions, please call Member Service at the number on the front of your ID card.

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Coverage Change for Breast Cancer Risk-Reduction Medications

On October 1, 2020, we’ll begin covering the following generic oral medications in the class of aromatase inhibitors at no additional cost for members when the medications are prescribed to reduce breast cancer risk:

• Anastrozole
• Exemestane
• Letrozole

This change applies to plans with either the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Formulary or the National Preferred Formulary. However, this change doesn’t apply to grandfathered plans that don’t comply with the Affordable Care Act.

If you have any questions, please call Member Service at the number on the front of your ID card.

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Upcoming 4th-Quarter Changes to the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Formulary

In the fourth quarter of 2020, we're updating our formulary (list of covered medications) for medical plans with pharmacy benefits, as well as Medex^®´ plans with a three-tier pharmacy benefit. This update includes changes that were originally scheduled to go into effect on May 1 and July 1. As part of these updates, certain medications may:

• No longer be covered (exceptions may be granted)
• Be excluded from coverage (exceptions won’t be granted)
• Switch tiers
• Have new quantity or dosing limits
• Require step therapy

 Questions?

Complete details about these changes will be available 60 days before the effective date at bluecrossma.com/pharmacy_updates. If you have any questions, please call Member Service at the number on the front of your ID card.

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Medications That Now Require Prior Authorization, Effective April 1, 2020

Effective April 1, 2020, until further notice, the following medications will have quantity limits for first-time prescriptions for new therapies:

• Chloroquine Phosphate
• Hydroxychloroquine
• Plaquenil

If a medication is prescribed for more than 10 days, your doctor will be required to obtain Prior Authorization from us before additional medication can be covered and dispensed.

If you have any questions, please call Member Service at the number on the front of your ID card.

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July 1st Formulary Changes Temporarily Delayed

In a recent Direct to You newsletter we notified you of upcoming formulary (list of covered medications) changes for July 1st that affected medical plans with pharmacy benefits as well as Medex^{® ́} plans with a three-tier pharmacy benefit. These changes have been temporarily delayed.

If you have any questions, please call Member Service at the number on the front of your ID card.

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May 1st Formulary Changes Temporarily Delayed

We recently notified you of upcoming formulary (list of covered medications) changes for May 1st that affected medical plans with pharmacy benefits as well as Medex®´ plans with a three-tier pharmacy benefit. These changes have been temporarily delayed.

If you have any questions, please call Member Service at the number on the front of your ID card.

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Upcoming changes to the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts formulary, effective May 1,2020 - Delayed

Beginning May 1, 2020, we’re updating our formulary (list of covered medications) for medical plans with pharmacy benefits, as well as Medex^®' plans with a three-tier pharmacy benefit. As part of these updates, certain medications may:

• No longer be covered (exceptions may be granted)

Medications no longer covered starting May 1, 2020

After carefully reviewing each medication’s cost and covered alternatives, we've removed the medications listed in the table below from our list of covered medications. However, your doctor may request an exception if these medications are medically necessary. If the exception is approved, you’ll pay the highest-tier cost.

Medication Class	Medication Name	Covered Alternative
Acne (topical)	Retin-A cream	Tretinoin cream
Antidepressants	Fluoxetine tablets Venlafaxine ER tablets	Fluoxetine capsules Venlafaxine ER capsules
Antineoplastics	Arimidex Aromasin Gleevec	Anastrozole Exemestane Imatinib
Diabetes	Invokamet Invokamet XR Invokana	Farxiga Jardiance Synjardy Synjardy XR Xigduo XR
Migraine	Imitrex 6mg/0.5ml injection	Sumatriptan 6mg/0.5ml injection
Ophthalmic combinations	Tobradex Zylet	Neomycin/Bacitracin/ Polymyxin B/Hydrocortisone, Neomycin/ Polymyxin B/ Dexamethasone, Neomycin/ Polymyxin B/Hydrocortisone, Sulfacetamide/Prednisolone, Tobramycin/Dexamethasone

Questions?

If you have any questions, please call Member Service at the number on the front of your ID card.

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Changes to our speciality pharmacy network

Beginning March 31, 2020, BriovaRx^®'' will no longer participate in our specialty pharmacy network. This change applies to the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts formulary, and the National Preferred Formulary (NPF). This doesn't affect members who have Medicare Advantage with a Part D prescription drug plan; they can continue to use BriovaRx without interruption. 

Unless you have Medicare Advantage with a Part D plan, you’ll no longer be covered for specialty medications purchased through BriovaRx. We’ll contact members who fill their prescriptions at BriovaRx to let them know that the pharmacy has left our network, and help them transition to an in-network specialty pharmacy.

Specialty pharmacies provide specialty medications that are used to treat certain complex health conditions. For more information about specialty medications, use the Medication Lookup tool.

If you have any questions, please call Member Service at the number on the front of your ID card.

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Changes to your prescription coverage

Beginning January 1, 2020, we’re updating our list of covered medications for medical plans with pharmacy benefits, as well as Medex^®' plans with a three-tier pharmacy benefit. As part of these updates, certain medications may:

• No longer be covered (exceptions may be granted)
• Be excluded from coverage (exceptions won’t be granted)
• Switch tiers
• Have new quantity or dosing limits

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Medications no longer covered in 2020

After carefully reviewing each medication's cost and covered alternatives, we've removed the medications listed in the table below from our covered medications list. However, your doctor may request an exception if these medications are medically necessary. If the exception is approved, you’ll pay the highest-tier cost.

Medication Class	Medication Name	Covered Alternative
Epinephrine Injections	Adrenaclick (Authorized Generic Product)	Epinephrine Auto-Injector EpiPen Auto-Injector
Inhaled Anticholinergic for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease	Tudorza inhaler	Spiriva RespiMat  Spiriva HandiHaler
Laxative	Lactulose 10 gm packet	Lactulose syrup
Stimulants	Strattera*	Atomoxetine
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory	Fenoprofen 200 mg and 400 mg capsules	Fenoprofen 600 mg tablets
Ophthalmic Dry eye Treatment	Restasis MultiDose	Restasis Single Use vials (requires prior authorization)
Oral Acne Treatment	Doxycycline IR-DR	Doxycycline Hyclate Doxycycline Monohydrate
Oral Antihistamine	Carbinoxamine 6 mg tablets	Carbinoxamine 4 mg tablets
Oral Muscle Relaxants	Chlorzoxazone 250 mg, 375 mg, and 750 mg tablets	Chlorzoxazone 500 mg tablets
Topical Acne Treatment	Aktipak gel pouch	Erythromycin/Benzoyl Peroxide
Topical Vitamin D	Sorilux Foam	Calcipotriene Cream
Weight Loss	Belviq Belviq XR	Saxenda Contrave ER

*If you currently take Strattera, your medication will continue to be covered until the current authorization expires. However, you’ll pay the highest-tier cost.

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Medications excluded from coverage

The following medications will be excluded from our pharmacy benefit as of January 1, 2020. You’ll be responsible for the full cost of these medications when filling a prescription at the pharmacy. This change will apply to all commercial plans, group Medex^®'plans with pharmacy benefits, and Managed Blue for Seniors. Formulary exceptions won’t be accepted for these medications

Medication or Supply Name

• Bensal HP¹
• Epiduo¹
• Pliaglis²
• Prilocaine 7%/Tetracaine 7%²
• Sil-k 2” X 5” Pad³

1. Over-the-counter alternatives that don’t require a prescription are available for this medication.
2. This medication isn’t available over-the-counter and is only available for medical professional use.
3. Coverage for bandages isn’t included under our pharmacy benefit.
4. This medication is available over-the-counter without a prescription.

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Medications switching tiers

When the cost of a medication changes, we may move it to a different tier. The medications listed below are moving to a higher tier under certain pharmacy plans and may cost more.

Medication Class	Medication Name	2020 Tier for members with a three-tier pharmacy benefit	2020 Tier for members with a four-tier pharmacy benefit	2020 Tier for members with a five-tier pharmacy benefit	2020 Tier for members with a six-tier pharmacy benefit
Topical Antiviral	Acyclovir Ointment	Tier 2a	Tier 3b	Tier 2a	Tier 3b
Granulocyte Stimulating Factor	Nivestym	Tier 3b	Tier 4c	Tier 5d	Tier 6e

1. This medication was previously covered at Tier 1.
2. This medication was previously covered at Tier 2.
3. This medication was previously covered at Tier 3.
4. This medication was previously covered at Tier 4.
5. This medication was previously covered at Tier 5.

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Medications with new quality care dosing limits

To make sure that the quantity and dose of a medication meet the Food and Drug Administration, manufacturer, and clinical recommendations, we’re reducing Quality Care Dosing Limits for the following medications:

Medication Name	Quality Care Dosing Limit per prescription
Calcipotriene 0.0005% cream, ointment, topical solution  Dovonex 0.0005% cream, ointment, topical solution	180 gm (all formulations)
Doxepin 5% cream  Prudoxin 5% cream Zonalon 5% cream	90 gm total
Albuterol HFA authorized products  ProAir HFA  ProAir RespiClick  Ventolin HFA  Proventil HFA  Xoponex HFA	2 inhalers
Oxiconazole nitrate 1% cream Oxistat cream	90 gm each
Triamcinolone 0.147mg/spray aerosol Kenalog aerosol (T3)	2 aerosol cans (126 gm)

Expanded access to certain cholesterol medications

In 2020, you’ll be able to fill prescriptions for Praluent and Repatha at any retail pharmacy that has access to these medications in the Express Scripts^®' network.* Previously, these medications, which are known as PCSK9 agents and are typically used to lower cholesterol levels, were only available through in-network specialty pharmacies.

*Please note that these medications may not be available at all pharmacies.

Coverage of Opioid Alternatives, and Change in Massachusetts’ "Partial Fill" Law

For members who prefer not to use opioids, a class of medication that includes OxyContin and Vicodin and is sometimes prescribed by doctors to treat pain, our standard plans cover a wide range of alternative treatment options, including more than 500 non-opiate medications (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and topical analgesics).*

We also cover several specialty services, combining therapies to offer individualized treatment for pain management, including:

• physical and occupational therapy (PT/OT)
• chiropractic treatment
• pain medicine specialists
• transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) units
• acupuncture (beginning January 1, 2020 for new or renewed plans)

We’ll be adding an Alternatives to Opioids section to the Medication Lookup tool by the end of December. That’s where you’ll find an Alternatives to Opioids fact sheet and medication list.

Also, due to a recent change in Massachusetts’ “partial fill” law, there’s no extra charge if you choose to partially fill your narcotic or opioid prescription. You won’t be charged an additional copay if you fill the remainder of your prescription at the same pharmacy within 30 days.

*For more information about coverage for non-opiate medications, members should check their pharmacy benefit materials. For covered pain management services, they should check their medical benefit materials.

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National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is October 26, 2019

Medications don’t last forever. Over time, their chemical properties change, making them less potent—and even dangerous. Take the time to go through your medicine cabinets and check for any expired or unwanted medications—this includes everything from aspirin to prescription medications.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s next National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is Saturday, October 26, 2019, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Anyone can take part by bringing expired or unused medications to a local disposal location.

Use the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration's search tool to find a collection site near you.

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Changes to our speciality pharmacy network and medication list

Beginning July 1, 2019, we’ll make the following changes to our retail specialty pharmacy network and to the medications these pharmacies can fill.

AllianceRx Walgreens Prime will leave our retail specialty pharmacy fertility network

AllianceRx Walgreens Prime will no longer be in our retail specialty pharmacy fertility network. If you’re receiving specialty fertility medications through AllianceRx Walgreens Prime, you can complete the medications for your current cycle, but we won’t cover prescriptions filled at AllianceRx Walgreens Prime on or after July 1, 2019. If this change impacts you, we’ll reach out to you directly.

BriovaRx® will leave our fertility network, but remain in our specialty network

BriovaRx will no longer be in our fertility network, but will continue to fill other prescriptions in our Specialty Network. If you’re receiving fertility medications through BriovaRx, you can complete the medications for your current cycle, but we won’t cover fertility prescriptions filled at BriovaRx on or after July 1, 2019. If this change impacts you, we’ll reach out to you directly.

Updates to our specialty pharmacy medication list

Beginning July 1, 2019, we’ll cover additional medications and new-to-market medications in our specialty pharmacy network.

Medications now available through our specialty pharmacy network:

• Cinryze
• Haegarda
• Berinert
• Kalbitor
• Ruconest

New-to-market medications:

Questions?

If you have any questions, please call Member Service at the number on the front of your ID card.

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Introducing our new Medication Lookup Tool

With our new and improved Medication Lookup tool, you can easily determine which medications are covered by your plan. You’ll also find covered alternatives to non-covered medications, as well as which medications have additional requirements before being prescribed. You can use the tool to:

• Search for any medication
• View medications by strength
• See medications by how they’re dispensed, such as pills, liquids, and injections
• Learn which medications have additional requirements, such as Prior Authorization, Step Therapy, and Quality Care Dosing
• See covered alternatives for non-covered medications

View medications by tier*

To use the tool, go to Medication Lookup tool.

Questions?

If you have any questions, please call Member Service at the number on the front of your ID card.

*A medication’s tier is based on your plan design. Knowing how many tiers your plan has can help you understand your out-of-pocket costs. Instructions to find which plan you have are included within the tool.

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Coming in July 2019: upcoming changes to our pharmacy program

Beginning July 1, 2019, we’re making changes to our list of covered medications for medical plans with pharmacy benefits, as well as Medex® plans with a three-tier pharmacy benefit. We’ll notify impacted members by June 1, 2019. As part of these updates, certain medications may:

• No longer be covered
• Switch cost tiers
• Be excluded from pharmacy benefit coverage due to over-the-counter availability
• Require prior authorization

Certain medication will become non-covered

After a careful review of its cost and covered alternatives, we’ve decided to remove the medication in the table below from our list of covered medications, effective July 1, 2019. Your doctor or prescriber may request a coverage exception if the medication is medically necessary. If the request is approved, you’ll pay the highest-tier cost for the medication.

Medication Class	Medication Name	Covered Alternative
Erythropoietins	Procrit*	Retacrit

*If you’re currently prescribed to Procrit, you may continue to fill your prescription under your existing prior authorization. However, you’ll pay more as the medication will move to the highest tier.

Medications that are switching tiers

When the cost of a medication changes, we may move the medication to a different tier. The medications listed below are moving to a higher tier, which means they may cost you more.

Medication Class	Medication Name	2019 Tier For members with a three-tier pharmacy benefit	2019 Tier For members with a four-tier pharmacy benefit	2019 Tier For members with a five-tier pharmacy benefit	2019 Tier For members with a six-tier pharmacy benefit
Topical Testosterone		Tier 3a	Tier 4b	Tier 3a	Tier 4b
Granulocyte Stimulant Factor		Tier 3a	Tier 4b	Tier 5c	Tier 6d

^a This medication was previously covered at Tier 2.

^b This medication was previously covered at Tier 3.

^c This medication was previously covered at Tier 4.

^d This medication was previously covered at Tier 5.

Medications excluded from pharmacy benefit coverage

The following medications will be excluded from our pharmacy benefit due to over-the-counter availability. This change will apply to all commercial plans, group Medex® plans with pharmacy benefits, and Managed Blue for Seniors. Formulary exceptions won’t be accepted for these medications.

Medication Name

• Differin 0.1% (All topical forms)
• Adapalene 0.1% (All topical forms)
• Proton pump inhibitors when included as part of a compounded medication*

*Members under the age of 18 will still be covered for these medications. However, prior authorization will be required for new prescriptions.

Medications requiring prior authorization

For certain medications, your doctor must first obtain approval before we cover it. The following medications will require prior authorization:

• Axiron*
• AndroGel*
• Berinert
• Firazyr
• Gilotrif*
• Haegarda
• Iressa*
• Kalbitor
• Neulasta
• Neupogen
• Ruconest
• Tarceva*
• Tagrisso*

*If you’re currently prescribed to this medication, you may continue to fill your prescription and won’t require prior authorization.

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Updates to our prior authorization requirements

Beginning July 1, 2019, our prior authorization requirements for the medications listed below are changing for members with our HMO, Access Blue, and Blue Choice® plans.

Medication Name	AdministrationBerinert
Berinert Cinqair Fasenra Firazyr Haegarda Kalbitor Neulasta Neupogen Nucala Ruconest	Prior authorization is required for these medications when administered: In a clinician’s or physician’s office By a home health care provider By a home infusion therapy provider In an outpatient hospital and dialysis setting

This change doesn’t affect these medications when administered in inpatient care, surgical day care, urgent care centers, and emergency room settings.

Upcoming changes to our pharmacy program

Beginning January 1, 2019, we're making changes to our list of covered medications for medical plans with pharmacy benefits, as well as Medex® plans with a three-tier pharmacy benefit. As part of these updates, certain medications may:

• No longer be covered
• Switch tiers
• Have a new dosing limit
• Require prior authorization
• Change cost

Proton pump inhibitors no longer a covered benefit in 2019

Effective January 1, 2019, proton pump inhibitors (medications commonly used to reduce stomach acid) will be excluded from your pharmacy benefit, except for members under the age of 18.

• This benefit exclusion will apply to members 18 years of age and older who currently have pharmacy benefits.
• This benefit exclusion will not apply to members under the age of 18.
• This benefit exclusion will not apply to members being treated with combination prescription medications to treat Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).

Exceptions will no longer be available for this class of medications, even if the member has a prescription or if we've covered it in the past.

Members should talk to their doctors about over-the-counter medication options that are available without a prescription.

This affects the following medications:

Medications no longer covered in 2019

After carefully reviewing each medication's cost and covered alternatives, we've removed the medications listed in the table below from our covered medications list. However, a doctor may request an exception if these medications are medically necessary. If the exception is approved, the member will pay the highest-tier cost.

Medication Class	Non-Covered Medication or Supply	Covered Alternative
Anticoagulants (medications to treat and prevent blood clots)	Pradaxa*	Eliquis, Xarelto, warfarin
Colchicine Products (medications to treat gout)	Single-source colchicine products (colchicine products that resemble generic versions in name only)	Colcrys, Mitigare
Dopamine Agonists (treatment for Parkinson's disease)	Mirapex	ropinirole, pramipexole
Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Agonists (injectable medications to treat diabetes)	Victoza	Byetta, Bydureon, Trulicity
Granulocyte Stimulants (white blood cell replacement agents used during chemotherapy)	Neupogen**††	Zarxio††, Granix††
Ophthalmic Anti-Inflammatory (short-term medications to treat inflammation in the eye)	FML S.O.P., FML Liquifilm, Pred Mild, Maxidex, Flarex	Lotemax, generic ophthalmic steroid medications

*Members currently using Pradaxa will be given an exception to continue their coverage until December 31, 2019, but they'll pay the highest-tier cost since the medication will no longer be covered.
**Members currently using Neupogen will be given an exception to continue their coverage until May 31, 2019, but they'll pay the highest-tier cost since the medication will no longer be covered.
^††This medication must be filled at an in-network retail specialty pharmacy.

Medications that are switching tiers

When the cost of a medication changes, we may move the medication to a different tier. Depending on the tier change, your payment for the following medications may increase or decrease:

These medications are moving to a higher tier, which means they may cost you more.

Medication Class	Medication Name	2019 Tier (for members with a three-tier pharmacy benefit)	2019 Tier (for members with a four-tier pharmacy benefit)	2019 Tier (for members with a five-tier pharmacy benefit)	2019 Tier (for members with a six-tier pharmacy benefit)
Infliximab Products (immunosuppressive medications to treat psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, etc.)	Remicade†† Renflexis††	Tier 3a	Tier 4b	Tier 5c	Tier 6d
Multiple Sclerosis: Oral Agents	Aubagio††	Tier 3a	Tier 4b	Tier 5c	Tier 6d

These medications are moving to a lower tier, which means they may cost you less.

Medication Class	Medication Name	2019 Tier (for members with a three-tier pharmacy benefit)	2019 Tier (for members with a four-tier pharmacy benefit)	2019 Tier (for members with a five-tier pharmacy benefit)	2019 Tier (for members with a six-tier pharmacy benefit)
DPP4/SGLT2 Inhibitor Combinations (oral medications to treat diabetes)	Glyxambi	Tier 2e	Tier 3e	Tier 2e	Tier 3e
Insulins - Basal	Basaglar	Tier 2e	Tier 3e	Tier 2e	Tier 3e
Multiple Sclerosis: Beta-Interferons	Plegridy††	Tier 2e	Tier 3e	Tier 4e	Tier 5e
Novel Psychotropics: Long Acting (medications to treat psychological disorders)	Abilify- Maintena	Tier 2e	Tier 3e	Tier 2e	Tier 3

^a This medication was previously covered at Tier 2.

^b This medication was previously covered at Tier 3.

^c This medication was previously covered at Tier 4.

^d This medication was previously covered at Tier 5.

^e This medication wasn't previously covered.

^†† This medication must be filled at an in-network retail specialty pharmacy.

Medications with new Quality Care Dosing Limit

To make sure that the quantity and dose of a medication meet the Food and Drug Administration, manufacturer, and clinical recommendations, we're reducing Quality Care Dosing Limits for the following medications:

Medication Name	Quality Care Dosing Limit
Morphabond ER 60mg	60 per prescription
Morphabond ER 100mg	30 per prescription

Medications requiring prior authorization (for new prescriptions only)

Your doctor is required to obtain prior authorization before we'll cover certain medications. The following medications will require prior authorization for new prescriptions in 2019. Members currently taking the medications will be given an exception and won't need prior authorization:

• Breo Ellipt

Higher costs for medications with supplies longer than 30 days

The cost for the medications listed below is increasing. These medications are usually dispensed in a supply longer than 30 days. We've typically only charged members a 30-day copayment for these medications. Beginning January 1, 2019, members will have to pay an adjusted copayment based on the supply length.^†

For example: if your copayment is $25 for a 30-day supply, you'll pay $75 for a 90-day supply.

• fluphenazine decanoate
• Lupron Depot Pediatric^††
• Eligard^††
• Zoladex^††
• leuprolide acetate^††
• haldol decanoate
• Lupron Depot^††
• haloperidol decanoate

^† This change only applies to members with a prescription plan that uses a copayment.

^†† This medication must be filled at an in-network retail specialty pharmacy.

How to save money for long-term prescriptions

You may be able to save money for long-term medications, also known as maintenance medications, when you order prescriptions through our mail order pharmacy. Learn more at MyBlue, or get started online by visiting Express Scripts^®, an independent company that manages your pharmacy benefits on behalf of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts. You can also call them directly at 1-800-892-5119.

Questions about your treatment options

If these changes affect you and you have questions about your treatment options, such as whether a less expensive medication is available, please talk to your doctor.

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New changes to our speciality pharmacy network

Effective September 1, 2018, we'll be making the following changes to our specialty pharmacy network:

• BriovaRx^®will join.
• AllianceRx Walgreens Prime will leave, but will remain within our fertility network.
• AllCare Plus Pharmacy and On co360 will also leave.

If you fill your prescription at one of the pharmacies that will be leaving our network, you'll receive a letter from us by August 1 to help you transition to an in-network pharmacy.

Specialty pharmacies provide medications that are used to treat certain complex health conditions. 

Questions?

If you have any questions or need help transitioning to an in-network pharmacy, please call Member Service at the number on the front of your ID card.

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Upcoming changes to our specialty pharmacy network

Beginning September 1, 2018, we’re making changes to our specialty pharmacy network. As part of these changes AllCare Plus Specialty Pharmacy and On co360 will be leaving the network. Prescriptions for specialty medications from AllCare Plus and On co360 will no longer be covered. If you fill your prescription at either of these pharmacies, we’ll contact you by August 1, 2018 to help you transition to an in-network specialty pharmacy. Specialty pharmacies provide medications that are used to treat certain complex health conditions. You can view our Specialty Medications list.

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Introducing Diabetes Care Value, a new way to engage and support members with diabetes

We're excited to introduce Diabetes Care Value, our newest program to support members with diabetes who are over 18. This program helps members regularly monitor blood glucose levels and manage diabetes medications, and offers incentives for making healthy choices. Beginning July 1, 2018, eligible members will receive communications in the mail from our partners, Express Scripts® and Mango Health*, with instructions on how to enroll.

The Diabetes Care Value program features:

• Tracking and monitoring of blood glucose readings with a OneTouch Verio Flex® meter, available at no additional cost. This meter pairs with the OneTouch Reveal® mobile app to track blood glucose readings.
• Access to specially trained pharmacists who monitor glucose readings through the OneTouch Reveal app and provide tailored coaching when issues are identified over time.
• Rewards and incentives for staying on track with diabetes medications and making healthy choices through Mango Health, a medication management app. Available at no additional cost, Mango Health is IOS and Android compatible.

Questions? Contact Express Scripts at 855-723-6099 and ask to speak to a pharmacist specializing in diabetes.

*Express Scripts and Mango Health are independent companies, working on behalf of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts.

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Update regarding changes to continuous glucose monitor sensor coverage

In March, we featured an article in our Direct to You newsletter and online on our MyBlue^®Pharmacy Updates page stating that beginning July 1, 2018, we would provide coverage for continuous glucose monitor (CGM) sensors under the Durable Medical Equipment (DME) benefit.

We have decided that coverage for CGM sensors will remain unchanged. As a result, CGM sensors will continue to be covered by your medical plan's pharmacy benefit.

If you have any questions, call the Member Service number on the front of your ID card.

You can refer to the original change announcement below.

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Changes to continuous glucose monitor sensor coverage

Beginning July 1, 2018, we'll provide coverage for continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) sensors under the Durable Medical Equipment (DME) benefit. Previously, CGM sensors were covered under the pharmacy benefit.

The move to DME was made, in part, to ease confusion regarding coverage requirements for the CGM sensors. If you don't have pharmacy coverage but already have coverage for the CGM sensors under DME benefits, there's no change to your plan.

We will notify impacted members of this change by letter prior to June 1, 2018.

If you have any questions, call the Member Service number on the front of your ID card.

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New prior authorization requirements for HMO, Access Blue, and Blue Choice®plans

Beginning July 1, 2018, prior authorization is required for the medications listed below when administered:

• In a doctor's office
• By home health care providers
• By home infusion therapy providers
• In outpatient hospital and dialysis settings

This change doesn't affect these medications when used in inpatient, surgical day care, urgent care centers, and ER settings. We encourage you to discuss this change with your health care provider.

Medications that require prior authorization:

• Cosentyx
• Hemlibra
• Inflectra
• Kevzara
• Rebinyn
• Renflexis
• Siliq
• Taltz
• Tremfya
• Tretten

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Coming in July 2018: changes to our pharmacy program

Beginning July 1, 2018, we're making changes to our covered medications list for medical plans with pharmacy benefits, and Medex®plans with the three-tier pharmacy benefit. As part of these updates, certain medications will do one of the following:

• Switch tiers
• No longer be covered
• Have a new dosing limit

Medications that are switching tiers

When the cost of a medication changes, we move the medication to a different tier. Depending on the tier change, your payment for the following medications may increase or decrease:

Medication Class	Medication Name	New Tier as of July 1, 2018 (applies to members with a 3-tier or 5-tier pharmacy benefit)	New Tier as of July 1, 2018 (applies to members with a 4-tier or 6-tier pharmacy benefit)
Dermatological	Doxepin cream	Tier 21	Tier 32
Inhaled combination for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease	Tier Anoro Ellipta	Tier 21	Tier 32

¹ This medication was previously covered at Tier 1.

² This medication was previously covered at Tier 2.

Medications no longer covered

After carefully reviewing each medication's cost and covered alternatives, we've removed the medications listed in the chart below from our covered medications list. However, when these medications are medically necessary, your prescribing doctor may request a coverage exception.

Medication Class	Non-Covered Medication or Supply	Covered Alternative
Multi-Source Brands	Provigil Lidoderm Patch	Modafinil Lidocaine Patch

Medications with a new Quality Care Dosing Limit

To make sure that the quantity and dose of a medication meets the Federal Drug Administration, manufacturer, and clinical recommendations, we’re adding a Quality Care Dosing Limit to the following medications:

For This Medication	The Quality Care Dosing Limit for Each Prescription	Additional Information
Naloxone Carpuject (vial and syringes)	Two per 30 days	This medication will also be available at no cost for eligible members. If you have a Saver plan, the deductible will apply first. Please call Member Service at the number on your ID card, or check your benefit materials to see if you're eligible.
Narcan nasal spray	Two per 30 day
Evzio	Two per 30 day	N/A

Proton pump inhibitors to be excluded from pharmacy coverage in 2019

Beginning January 1, 2019, all proton pump inhibitors will be excluded from our pharmacy benefit coverage, except for members under the age of 18 and those taking combination medications to treat H. Pylori. Formulary exceptions, including those previously approved, will no longer be available for this class of medication, except for members under the age of 18 and those taking combination medications to treat H. Pylori.

This change applies to the following plans with pharmacy benefits:

• Individual plans
• Massachusetts Health Connector plans
• Medex plans with 3-tier pharmacy benefits

Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy Is Now AllianceRx Walgreens Prime

One of the specialty pharmacies in our retail network, Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy, has changed its name to AllianceRx Walgreens Prime. AllianceRx Walgreens Prime delivers specialty pharmacy services to individuals with complex medical conditions.

If you're already using this specialty pharmacy for any medication, no action on your part is required. AllianceRx Walgreens Prime will continue to fill prescriptions—just under its new name. Phone and fax numbers remain the same for now, but the website has been updated to reflect the name change.

How to reach AllianceRx Walgreens Prime:

Phone: 1-800-424-9002

Fax: 1-800-874-9179

Web: alliancerxwp.com

$0 Copay for some statin medications starting December 1, 2017

Pharmacy benefit update for statins, effective December 1, 2017

To comply with the Affordable Care Act, starting December 1, 2017, the following statin medications will be covered at no cost* for members that meet the conditions listed below.

• Atorvastatin 10-20 mg
• Fluvastatin IR and XL 20-80 mg
• Lovastatin 10-40 mg
• Pravastatin 10-80 mg
• Rosuvastatin 5-10 mg
• Simvastatin 5-40 mg

Members must meet the following criteria:

• No history of cardiovascular disease (CVD) (i.e., symptomatic coronary artery disease or ischemic stroke)
• Meet the age requirement (40 to 75)
• Have one or more CVD risk factors (dyslipidemia, diabetes, hypertension, or smoking)
• Have a calculated 10-year risk of a cardiovascular event of 10% or greater

Questions?

If you have any questions, please call Member Service at the number on the front of your Blue Cross ID card. For more information about your prescription coverage, visit bluecrossma.com/pharmacy. *For qualified members.

Pharmacy program changes coming in 2018

Beginning January 1, 2018, we're making changes to our covered medications list for medical plans with pharmacy benefits, and Medex® plans with the three-tier pharmacy benefit.

These changes affect:

• Medication coverage
• Medication dosing limits

Medications no longer covered as of 2018

After reviewing each medication's cost and covered alternatives, we've removed the medications listed in the chart below from our covered medications. However, when these medications are medically necessary, a member's doctor or prescriber may request a coverage exception; if approved, the medication will process at the highest tier

Medication Class	Non-Covered Medication or Supply	Covered Alternative
Biguanides for Diabetes	Generic Metformin Film Coated ER version of Fortamet	Metformin 500mg, 850mg, 1000mg(Generic version of Glucophage) Metformin ER 500mg, 750mg (Generic version of Glucophage XR)
Estrogen and Estrogen Modifiers	Femring	Estrace Estring Premarin
Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Agents	Tanzeum*	Bydureon Byetta Trulicity
Novel Psychotropics	Abilify Geodon Seroquel Zyprexa Zyprexa Zidis	aripiprazole ziprasidone quetiapine olanzapine olanzapine ODT

*Existing users may continue to fill this medication but will experience a tier change.

Medication with new Quality Care Dosing Limit

To make sure that the quantity and dose of a medication meets the Federal Drug Administration, manufacturer, and clinical recommendations, we are adding a Quality Care Dosing Limit to the following medications:

Medication Name	Quality Care Dosing Limit
Humira Pediatric Crohn's Starter Pack	1 Pack (2 Syringes)

*This impacts new starts only. There will be no impacted member communications

Proton pump inhibitors will be excluded from pharmacy coverage

Beginning January 1, 2019, all proton pump inhibitors will be excluded from our pharmacy benefit coverage, except for members under the age of 18 and those taking combination medications to treat H. Pylori. Formulary exceptions, including those previously approved, will no longer be available for this class of medication, except for members under the age of 18 and those taking combination medications to treat H. pylori.

This change applies to all commercial plans, group Medex plans with three-tier pharmacy benefits, and Managed Blue for Seniors plans. We will notify impacted members beginning in November 2018 prior to the change.

AllCare Plus Specialty Pharmacy is joining our network

This summer you'll have another retail specialty pharmacy option where you can fill prescriptions for specialty medications. Starting July 1, 2017, AllCare Plus Pharmacy is joining our retail specialty pharmacy network. Specialty pharmacies provide medications that are used to treat certain health conditions. These medications must be filled at a retail specialty pharmacy in our network. You can view our Specialty Medications List here. We're updating this list on July 1 to include the medications AllCare Plus fills. You can reach AllCare Plus at 1-855-880-1091 or allcarepluspharmacy.com.

Proton pump inhibitors will be excluded from pharmacy coverage

Beginning January 1, 2019, all proton pump inhibitors will be excluded from our pharmacy benefit coverage, except for members under the age of 18 and those taking combination medications to treat H. Pylori. Formulary exceptions, including those previously approved, will no longer be available for this class of medication, except for members under the age of 18 and those taking combination medications to treat H. pylori. This change applies to all commercial plans, group Medex plans with three-tier pharmacy benefits, and Managed Blue for Seniors plans. We're making this change because several products in this class are available over the counter.

New prior authorization requirements for HMO, Access Blue, and Blue Choice plans

Beginning September 1, 2017, prior authorization is required for the medications listed below when administered:

• In doctor offices
• By home health care providers
• By home infusion therapy providers
• In outpatient hospital and dialysis settings

This change doesn't affect these medications when used in inpatient, surgical day care, urgent care centers, and ER settings. We encourage you to discuss this change with your health care provider.

Medications that require prior authorization:

• Egrifta
• Exondys-51
• Gel-Syn
• Ixinity
• Kanuma
• Kovaltry
• Lemtrada
• NovoEight
• Obizur
• Spinraza
• Zomacton

Changes to our pharmacy program

Beginning September 1, 2017, we're making changes to our covered medications list that will affect:

• Medications switching tiers
• Medications that are no longer covered
• One medication moving to benefit exclusion (also impacts Managed Blue for Seniors)

Plans affected by the changes:

• Commercial medical plans with pharmacy benefits
• Medex® plans with the three-tier pharmacy benefit

Medications changing tier status

When the cost of a medication changes, we move the medication to a different tier. Depending on the tier change, you may be required to pay more or less for the following medications: Note:

Medication Class	Medication Name	Covered Tier Level as of September 1, 2017 under a 3 Tier Formulary	Covered Tier Level as of September 1, 2017 under a 4 Tier Formulary
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI)	Esomeprazole Lansoprazole Omeprazole Omeprazole/​BiCarb Pantoprazole Rabeprazole Prevacid SoluTab	Tier 3	Tier 4
Syringes	Terumo Thinpro Ulticare	Tier 2	Tier 3

If you're using combination prescription medications to treat H. pylori, you'll continue to pay your current cost.

Medications no longer covered

After carefully reviewing each medication's cost and covered alternatives, we've removed the medications listed in the chart below from our covered medications list for the plans referenced above. However, when these medications are medically necessary, your doctor or prescriber may request a coverage exception.

Medication Class	Non-Covered Medication or Supply
Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (for high blood pressure)	Azor, Benicar, Benicar HCT, and Tribenzor
Antipsychotic Medications	Seroquel XR
Asthma/Allergy Treatment	Singulair
Cholesterol-Lowering Medications	Zetia
Colonoscopy Preparation/ Laxatives	Osmoprep*
Dermatological Treatments	Alcortin-A, Anusol HC Suppository, Lidocaine-HC 2%-2.5% Kit, Relador Pak, Relador Pak Plus, Salicylic Acid 6% Lotion Kit

*Since Osmoprep is a one-time use medication, we will not issue member letters.

Medication excluded from pharmacy coverage

The following medication will be excluded from our pharmacy coverage because it's cosmetic. This change will apply to all commercial plans, group Medex® plans with pharmacy benefits, and Managed Blue for Seniors. Formulary exception will not be accepted for this medication

• Medication Name
• Avenova Lid-Lash Spray