CVS Caremark Provides Formulary Updates for October

Effective Oct. 1, 2022, CVS Caremark is removing four generic drugs from its Standard Control Formulary and adding back one branded therapy for the commercial segment that was previously removed. A CVS Caremark spokesperson did not provide a reason for the newest changes.

“Our template formularies remain critical tools in helping clients save money as they recover from the economic impacts of COVID-19, while continuing to provide affordable prescription drug benefits to their members,” the spokesperson told Formulary Watch.

Added back to the formulary is Novartis’s Zortress (everolimus), which is used to prevent transplant rejection in those who have received a kidney or liver transplant. The average retail price is $1,919.28 for 120 tablets, according to GoodRx, with the lowest price of $561.10.

The updated list also shows Bristol Myers Squibb’s Eliquis (apixaban) as being a covered therapy. The spokesperson said Eliquis had been added back onto the formulary effective July 1, 2022, and the updated list now reflects this. Eliquis had been excluded from the drug list earlier this year. The CVS Caremark spokesperson said they was able to secure a lower net cost through negotiations with the manufacturer.

Related: CVS Caremark Drops Several Products from Drug List

Two of the removals include: betamethasone dipropionate ointment, which is a glucocorticoid steroid, and clobetasol emulsion foam ointment, a steroid, both used to treat a variety of skin conditions, such as eczema, dermatitis, allergies and rash.

The formulary list shows that covered medications include the topical Bryhali (halobetsol), a highly potent steroid developed by Ortho Dermatologics, and several other medium- and high-potency generic steroids that are used to treat some of the same conditions. Additionally, while clobetasol emulsion foam ointment has been removed from the formulary, CVS Caremark still provides coverage for clobetasol foam ointment and gel.

Two other removals include:

• Doxycycline hyclate tablet, which is used to treat bacterial infections, including those that cause acne, and to prevent malaria. The formulary does, however, cover Galderma’s Epiduo (adapalene and benzoyl peroxide), which is a combination of a retinoid and an antibacterial medication, Ortho Dermatologics’ Onexton (clindamycin phosphate and benzoyl peroxide), a combination of an antibacterial and topical antiseptic, and several other generics that treat acne.
• Lansoprazole ODT, a fast-solving tablet version of the proton pump inhibitor to treat reflux. The formulary list, however, does provide coverage for lansoprazole delayed-release capsule.