July 1, 2011 Formulary Update

On July 1, 2011 drug additions were instituted on the Denver Health Medical Plan, CSA, CHP+, and Medicaid prescription formularies as well as the CHP+ and Medicaid over the counter (OTC) formularies.  These drug additions include Alora (estradiol), Mobic (meloxicam), and Relpax (eletriptan) to the prescription formularies and Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Liquitears to the OTC formularies.

Denver Health Medical Plan, CSA, CHP+, and Medicaid prescription formulary additions

• Alora (estradiol) – Tier 2

• Mobic (meloxicam) – Tier 1

• Relpax (eletriptan) – Tier 3, PAR

CHP+ and Medicaid OTC formulary additions

Alora (estradiol), a twice weekly patch indicated for the treatment of menopause, decreased estrogen level secondary to hypogonadaism, and post-menopausal osteoporosis has been added to the prescription formularies at tier 2. The formulary also covers once weekly Estraderm (estradiol) patches on tier 2.

Mobic (meloxicam) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is known to be more selective for the COX-2 receptor than other NSAIDs. COX-2 selectivity has been linked to decreased gastrointestinal toxicities. Meloxicam has been added to the prescription formularies at tier 1. Diclofenac, ibuprofen, indomethacin, ketoprofen, naproxen, salsalate, and sulindac are also available on tier 1.

The triptan antimigraine medication Relpax (eletriptan) is known to have the longest concentration half-life when compared to other medications of this class. Eletriptan has been added to the formulary at tier 3 and requires a prior authorization request (PAR). The formularies also cover Imitrex (sumatriptan) tablets at tier 1, and Zomig (zolmitriptan) tablets and zolmitriptan ZMT tablets at Tier 2 without a PAR. Quantity limits are in place for these medications.

CHP+ and Medicare members are eligible for coverage of OTC medications listed on their OTC formulary. Cetirizine 5mg and 10mg tablets and chewable tablets, as well as syrup will now be available on these formularies along with the available loratadine products. Additionally Liquitears will also now be covered on the OTC formularies. Previously no OTC artificial tears were available.