Generic Version of Lipitor® Now Available
Posted on February 28, 2012
At HNE we are constantly looking for ways to keep down health care costs, while continuing to provide you with the highest possible level of quality. As part of this commitment, atorvastatin, the generic formulation of Lipitor®, will be categorized as a Tier 1 medication on the HNE formulary. It will be available without prior approval to members currently receiving Lipitor®. HNE will require prior approval of atorvastatin for all other members, including those with a history of simvastatin or pravastatin use.
We have provided a summary of the tier status and member copayment for the most commonly prescribed cholesterol-lowering medications (see chart on right). The copayment will vary by your benefit package.
If you have any questions, please contact Member Services at 413.787.4004 or 800.310.2835.
| Medication | Status | Member Copayment |
Approximate 30-day Supply Cost* |
Prior Authorization Required |
| Simvastatin 20/40 mg |
Tier 1 | ≤ $15 | $10.70 | No |
| Pravastatin 20/40 mg |
Tier 1 | ≤ $15 | $9.73** | No |
| Lipitor® 20/40 mg |
Tier 3 | ≤ $100 | $163.34 | Yes |
| Atorvastatin 20/40 mg |
Tier 1 | ≤ $15 | $141.39 | Yes*** |
| Crestor® 20/40 (rosuvastatin) |
Tier 2 | ≤ $50 | $140.00 | Yes |
* When a patent expires, the first company to file for a generic version of the medication gets six
months’ exclusive rights to sell this product. During this time, the price of the drug is decreased
by only 10 percent. At the end of the exclusivity period, it is anticipated that atorvastatin will
be available from additional manufacturers at a reduced cost.
** May be available at a reduced price through various retail prescription drug programs.
*** Not required for members with a previously approved prior authorization for Lipitor.
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