Asthma Inhaler Update
The MO HealthNet Pharmacy Program has become aware of a nationwide shortage of Asmanex® HFA inhalers. As brand name Flovent HFA® has also been discontinued by the manufacturer, this action has reduced access to maintenance medications for pediatric patients with asthma. In response to these changes in the marketplace, the following temporary changes in the Corticosteroids, Oral Inhaled PDL Edit will be effective 1/25/2024:
- Fluticasone Propionate HFA (generic Flovent HFA®) is now a preferred agent.
Arnuity® Ellipta® (fluticasone furoate) and Asmanex® Twisthaler® (mometasone furoate) remain preferred agents.
Dulera® 50mcg/5mcg (mometasone furoate and formoterol fumarate dihydrate) and Asmanex® HFA (mometasone furoate) remain available to participants < 12 years of age as first-line therapy without any pre-requisite trial of a preferred agent.
Please reference the full Corticosteroids Oral criteria online.
MO HealthNet recommends using SMART therapy for all appropriate participants with asthma. Symbicort® and Dulera® 100mcg/5mcg remain preferred agents with no prior authorization required. More information on SMART therapy may be accessed online.
Providers with questions may call MO HealthNet at 800-392-8030.