On November 30, 2011, the
generic form of Lipitor, called atorvastatin, became available. Through a
special program with Lipitor?s manufacturer, IBC commercial members can
continue to obtain brand Lipitor at the same level of cost-sharing they pay for
generic drugs. This limited time program is in place for a six-month period,
from November 30, 2011, to May 31, 2012.
Members who are currently taking
Lipitor received a letter in early November that informed them of the program
details. These members will also receive a letter in May as the program
concludes to remind them of the program?s end date.
Once the program ends
Starting June 1, 2012, members who have
been prescribed Lipitor will be encouraged to make the switch to its generic
form, atorvastatin. At that time, brand Lipitor will become a non-formulary
brand medication and will only be available at the highest non-formulary level
of cost-sharing.
As of June 1, 2012, members who are
filling prescriptions for Lipitor should be given generic atorvastatin at their
pharmacy to continue paying the lowest formulary level of cost-sharing.
Note: From November 30, 2011, to May
31, 2012, generic atorvastatin will not be covered under IBC prescription drug
programs.
Our position on generic drugs
This initiative doesn?t change our
position on the benefits of generic drugs. IBC remains committed to their use,
as they are typically the lowest-cost option and are often prescribed as
preferred alternatives to brand-name medications.