On April 1, 2018, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama ("BCBSAL") implemented a utilization management program which limits the duration of therapy of immediate release opioids (single and combination agents). Initial fills of these agents by those who are opioid naïve are limited to 7 days of therapy. A prescription quantity that exceeds a 7-day supply of an immediate release opioid agent for opioid naïve Covered Persons (those without an opioid claim in the past 180 days) will require prior authorization. The policy does not restrict the pharmacist’s ability to partially fill a C-II controlled substance, which is permittable under federal law.

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