We're setting new quantity limits for Suboxone^®

On Nov. 1, 2016, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan will implement new quantity limits for Suboxone^®. Suboxone is a combination product containing buprenorphine and naloxone. The product is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of opioid dependence.

The new quantity limits are 90 films per 30 days and 270 films per 90 days. These limits:

• Align with FDA-approved dosing guidelines to minimize potentially unsafe drug use by our members
• Affect only commercial or non-Medicare Advantage members who have Blue Cross pharmacy benefits with quantity limits
• Apply to both brand and generic forms of Suboxone
• Don’t apply to auto group members

Our goal is to provide our members with safe, high-quality prescription drugs. In September, we sent letters to members who may be affected and encouraged them to discuss treatment options their doctors.

If necessary, you can request an override of the new quantity limits for your patients. Your request should include documentation, such as chart notes, to support that the amount prescribed is medically necessary.

To get a form for a quantity limit override:

• Log in to web-DENIS.
• Click BCBSM Provider Publications and Resources on the left.
• Click Commercial Pharmacy Prior Authorization and Step Therapy forms on the right.
• Click Quantity Limit Request form.

You can also call the Pharmacy Services Clinical Help Desk at 1-800-437-3803 to get a form or if you have questions about this change.