Change in Preferred Drug List Status for the Smoking Cessation Drug Class Effective May 16, 2023

HHSC is aware of a drug shortage for the brand name Chantix in the Smoking Cessation drug class due to a manufacturing delay of this product by Pfizer. In response to the preferred brand name Chantix shortage, HHSC removed the non-preferred status from the generic product, varenicline, on the preferred drug list.

Other news:

• Memorial Day Holiday to Delay Pharmacy Payments
• HHSC to Implement Antimigraine Agents-Ergot Derivatives Clinical Prior Authorization on June 6
• HHSC to Implement Gattex Clinical Prior Authorization on June 6
• Members Sought for the Drug Utilization Review Board (applications due June 9)
• Pharmacy Email Addresses Must Be Current in PEMS