Independence Blue Cross (IBX) is implementing changes to its preferred drug list that may affect some of your patients with Value Formulary and Select Drug Program® Formulary. Please review the details below to ensure a smooth transition.
Effective January 1, 2026, the following brand-name drugs will be preferred over their generic equivalents:
- Yasmin®
- Yaz®
- Vivelle-Dot®
- Vascepa Capsule®
- Restasis®
- Onexton Gel™
- Retin-A Micro Pump Gel®
- Soolantra Cream®
What providers need to do
- For most patients, no action is needed. Pharmacies will automatically switch your patients, our members, from the generic version to the preferred brand-name drug.
- For patients using a generic estradiol WEEKLY patch, Climara® Patch or Menostar® Patch, you may need to write a new prescription for Vivelle-Dot.
- If a patient asks to continue taking the generic version, you will need to discuss whether it is medically necessary. If it is, then you can submit an exception request for review.
These changes do not affect the Premium formulary or Medicare members in Pennsylvania.
IBX is committed to providing members with safe, effective, and dependable access to prescription drugs. Our coverage decisions are grounded in clinical evidence and undergo thorough review by both internal and external experts. While generics are often favored for their lower cost and proven effectiveness, there are specific cases when a brand-name drug is preferred.
If you have questions or need assistance with exception requests, please contact IBX Provider Services at 1-800 ASK BLUE (1-800-275-2583). For more pharmacy news and helpful resources, providers can visit the Pharmacy Resource Page.
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