In an effort to support continued access to affordable prescription drug benefits, MedImpact Healthcare Systems, Inc., on behalf of participating plans, will preferentially cover the brand version of NEXIUM over generic ESOMEPRAZOLE MAGNESIUM when the generic becomes available in the market. Under this initiative, we will request pharmacies to dispense brand name NEXIUM for all new and refill ESOMEPRAZOLE MAGNESIUM prescriptions from 02/20/15 to 08/18/15 for members of participating plans. Pharmacies will continue to receive brand reimbursement for these fills.

Envision has received notice that generic Nexium® was approved for launch on or around February 17, 2015.

Effective March 2, 2015, claims for generic Nexium® (esomeprazole magnesium) will be treated as a benefit exclusion for the entirety of the generic exclusivity period. During this time, beneficiaries will be able to receive the brand name Nexium® at their generic copay and DAW penalty waived.  If you have any questions regarding this change, please contact our Pharmacy Help Desk at 1-800-361-4542. Our Pharmacy Help Desk is available to assist you 24 hours a day / 7 days a week.

Effective February 17, 2015, generic for Nexium® 20 and 40 mg capsules became available in the marketplace; however, due to limited supply of the generic, select Medicare Part D plans adjudicating claims through CVS/caremark will continue to cover only the BRAND NAME product. The generic product, esomeprazole magnesium, will be nonformulary. Please continue to dispense brand name, Nexium®.

If claims for the generics are submitted, the following reject will occur:

Reject 70 <<Product/Service Not Covered – Plan/Benefit Exclusion >>

This week's generics update from McKesson has information on launches of generic Nexium and Mirapex, service level updates, and more!

This week's Generic News includes information on launches of generic Mirapex and Nexium, as well as the latest on the Weekly Generics Campaign.