Flovent HFA Discontinuation on the MS Medicaid Universal Preferred Drug List (PDL)
Flovent HFA (fluticasone propionate inhalation aerosol) was recently discontinued by its manufacturer, GlaxoSmithKline. This is a business decision made by GlaxoSmithKline and not related to any new safety or efficacy information.
Background
Fluticasone propionate HFA (generic for Flovent HFA; 44, 110, & 220 mcg/act inhaled aerosol; 120 actuations with 1 canister) is indicated for the maintenance treatment of asthma as prophylactic therapy in patients aged 4 years and older.
Action
Based on the discontinuation of the name brand Flovent HFA the Division of Medicaid has made the following policy changes.
1. Fluticasone HFA will remain non-preferred, however, there will be automatic approval (electronic prior authorization) of Fluticasone HFA for children aged 4- 5 years, who have a diagnosis of asthma.
2. Age waiver prior authorization submission will be required for Fluticasone HFA for children less than 4 years of age.
3. For children >6 years of age, providers should prescribe the most cost-effective drugs to the state – the preferred drugs in the Inhaled Glucocorticoid Class; Asmanex Twisthaler (mometasone), budesonide 0.25mg and 0.5mg nebulizer suspension, Pulmicort Flexhaler (budesonide), and Qvar Redihaler (beclomethasone diproprionate).
