Expansion of existing quantity limit includes new prescriptions for long‑acting opioids and tramadol

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are expanding the existing quantity limits on opioid medications to include long-acting opioids and tramadol. This expansion is in support of the Food and Drug Administration’s efforts to balance the serious risk of opioids with the drugs’ pain management benefits.

Starting Jan. 1, 2022, long-acting opioids and tramadol will have a five-day, first fill limit for commercial members with a new long-acting opioid or tramadol prescription. This change doesn’t apply to members currently taking a long-acting opioid or tramadol, or who are on Medicare.