CVS/pharmacy Announces New Lower-Cost Alternative to EpiPen and Adrenaclick
NRECA’s pharmacy benefit manager, CVS/pharmacy, has just announced a new generic drug now available as a substantially lower-cost alternative to EpiPen® and Adrenaclick® for the emergency treatment of allergic reactions to insect bites, food and drugs.
This new epinephrine auto-injector contains the same active medicine as EpiPen and Adrenaclick and is available only at CVS retail pharmacies and mail-order.
Participants in NRECA’s high-deductible health plan would pay the retail cost of $109.99 for a two-pack until the deductible is met. In comparison, EpiPen sells for more than $600 and its generic drug for more than $300.
Participants covered under NRECA PPO prescription drug plans will pay $0, as they do for all generic drugs from CVS (as part of the Exclusive Choice network).
To switch products and take advantage of this new lower-cost alternative, participants must contact their doctor and ask for a new prescription for the epinephrine auto-injector. Then this prescription can be fulfilled at their local CVS pharmacy or through mail-order.
EpiPen and Adrenaclick will continue to be covered as preferred brand drugs. For participants under NRECA’s PPO prescription drug plan, the “Dispense as Written” provision will not apply (participants will not have to pay the difference between the generic and brand drug). If you have any questions about this medication, call CVS/caremark member services at 888.796.7322.
Go Generic
Generics offer the greatest cost savings. On average, the cost of a generic drug is 80% to 85% lower than its brand-name equivalent. Participants are encouraged to use generic drug alternatives when available and speak with their medical care providers about other ways to help them save money on prescriptions.
Pharmacy Resources
The Performance Drug List highlights which generics are covered under the prescription drug plan.
The NRECA Exclusive Choice list identifies pharmacies nationwide in the Exclusive Choice network, through which generics are $0 for participants under the PPO prescription drug plan.