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Baclofen Prior Authorization with Quantity Limit Program Summary

Policy Number: PH-1121

 

This program applies to Blue Partner, Commercial, GenPlus, NetResults A series, and Health Insurance Marketplace formularies.

POLICY REVIEW CYCLE                                                                                                                                                                            

Effective Date

Date of Origin 

1/1/2024

FDA APPROVED INDICATIONS AND DOSAGE

Agent(s)

FDA Indication(s)

Notes

Ref#

Fleqsuvy™

(baclofen)

Oral suspension*

● Treatment of spasticity resulting from multiple sclerosis, particularly for the relief of flexor spasms and concomitant pain, clonus, and muscle rigidity

● May also be of some value in patients with spinal cord injuries and other spinal cord diseases

Limitations of Use:

Fleqsuvy is not indicated in the treatment of skeletal muscle spasm resulting from rheumatic disorders

* generic available

6

Lyvispah™ (baclofen)

Oral granules

● Treatment of spasticity resulting from multiple sclerosis, particularly for the relief of flexor spasms and concomitant pain, clonus, and muscular rigidity

● May also be of some value in patients with spinal cord injuries and other spinal cord diseases

Limitations of Use:

Lyvispah is not indicated in the treatment of skeletal muscle spasm resulting from rheumatic disorders

7

Ozobax® 

Ozobax® DS

(baclofen)

Oral solution

 ● Treatment of spasticity resulting from multiple sclerosis, particularly for the relief of flexor spasms and concomitant pain, clonus, and muscle rigidity

● May also be of some value in patients with spinal cord injuries and other spinal cord diseases

Limitations of Use:

Ozobax/Ozobax DS is not indicated in the treatment of skeletal muscle spasm resulting from rheumatic disorders

1,8

See package insert for FDA prescribing information:  https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/index.cfm

CLINICAL RATIONALE

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by demyelization, inflammation, and degenerative changes.  Most people with MS experience relapses and remissions of neurological symptoms, particularly early in the disease, and clinical events are usually associated with areas of CNS inflammation. Gradual worsening or progression, with or without subsequent acute attacks of inflammation or radiological activity, may take place early, but usually becomes more prominent over time. While traditionally viewed as a disease solely of CNS white matter, more advanced imaging techniques have demonstrated significant early and ongoing CNS gray matter damage as well.(2)

Those diagnosed with MS may have many fluctuating and disabling symptoms (including, but not limited to, fatigue, impaired mobility, mood and cognitive changes, pain and other sensory problems, visual disturbances, and elimination dysfunction), resulting in a significant impact on quality of life for patients and their families. There are currently four major types of MS: clinically isolated syndrome (CIS), relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), primary progressive MS (PPMS), and secondary progressive MS (SPMS).(2)

Spasticity from the upper motor neuron syndrome (a complex of signs and symptoms that can be associated with exaggerated reflexes, autonomic hyperreflexia, dystonia, contractures, paresis, lack of dexterity, and fatigability, in addition to spasticity) can result from a variety of conditions affecting the cortex or spinal cord. Some of the more common conditions associated with spasticity include multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, cerebral palsy, and post-stroke syndrome. In many patients with these conditions, spasticity can be disabling and painful, with a marked effect on functional ability and quality of life. Baclofen, dantrolene, and tizanidine are approved for the treatment of spasticity related to multiple sclerosis. Other medications used to treat spasticity with multiple sclerosis include benzodiazepines, clonidine, and gabapentin.(3)

 

There is evidence that baclofen, tizanidine, and dantrolene are effective compared to placebo in patients with spasticity related to multiple sclerosis. Baclofen and tizanidine are roughly equivalent for efficacy in patients with spasticity. The overall rate of adverse effects between baclofen and tizanidine is similar, tizanidine causes more dry mouth and baclofen more weakness.(3)

Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) remain a devastating clinical problem, both to the individual patient and to society as a whole. The most common cause of SCI is motor vehicle accidents, followed by falls, acts of violence (primarily gunshot wounds), and sports/recreational activities.(4) Immobility and spasticity contribute to muscle contractures after SCI. Preventive management is extremely important and should begin immediately after an SCI and continue for long-term. Preventative management includes positioning, range-of-motion exercises, and splinting.(5) Baclofen, dantrolene, pregabalin and tizanidine are approved for spasticity with spinal cord injuries. Methylprednisolone can be used for SCI but the Congress of Neurological Surgeons states there is insufficient evidence to make a recommendation.(4)

Efficacy(1,6,7,8)

The efficacy of Fleqsuvy (baclofen), Lyvispah (baclofen), and Ozobax/Ozabax DS (baclofen) is based on bioavailability studies in healthy adults comparing baclofen oral tablets to Fleqsuvy, Lyvispah, or Ozobax/Ozobax DS.

Safety(1,6,7, 8)

Abrupt discontinuation of baclofen, regardless of the cause, has resulted in adverse reactions that include hallucinations, seizures, high fever, altered mental status, exaggerated rebound spasticity, and muscle rigidity, that in rare cases has advanced to rhabdomyolysis, multiple organ-system failure, and death. Therefore, reduce the dosage slowly when discontinuing, unless the clinical situation justifies a rapid withdrawal.

REFERENCES                                                                                                                                                                            

Number

Reference

1

Ozobax Prescribing Information. Metacel Pharmaceuticals, LLC. May 2020.

2

Multiple Sclerosis Coalition. The Use of Disease Modifying Therapies in Multiple Sclerosis: Principles and Current Evidence. A Consensus Paper by the Multiple Sclerosis Coalition.  June 2019. 

3

Chou R, Peterson K, Helfand M. Comparative Efficacy and Safety of Skeletal Muscle Relaxants for Spasticity and Musculoskeletal Conditions: A Systemic Review. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management. 2004 Aug;28(2):140-75.

4

Arnold PM, Anderson PA, Chi JH, et al. Congress of Neurological Surgeons Systematic Review and Evidence-Based Guidelines on the Evaluation and Treatment of Patients with Thoracolumbar Spine Trauma: Pharmacological Treatment. Neurosurgery. 2019 Jan;84(1):E36-E38.

5

Dalyan M, Sherman A, Cardenas DD. Factors associated with contractures in acute spinal cord injury. Spinal Cord. 1998 Jun;36(6):405-8.

6

Fleqsuvy Prescribing Information. Azurity Pharmaceuticals, Inc. February 2022.

7

Lyvispah prescribing information. Saol Therapeutics Inc. November 2021.

8

Ozobax DS Prescribing Information. Metacel Pharmaceuticals, LLC. October 2023. 

POLICY AGENT SUMMARY PRIOR AUTHORIZATION

Target Brand Agent(s)

Target Generic Agent(s)

Strength

Targeted MSC

Available MSC

Final Age Limit

Preferred Status

Lyvispah

Baclofen Granules Packet

5  ; 5 MG

M ; N ; O ; Y

N

Lyvispah

Baclofen Granules Packet

10  ; 10 MG

M ; N ; O ; Y

N

Lyvispah

Baclofen Granules Packet

20  ; 20 MG

M ; N ; O ; Y

N

Ozobax ds

baclofen oral soln

10 MG/5ML

M ; N ; O ; Y

M

Ozobax

Baclofen Oral Soln 5 MG/5ML

5 MG/5ML

M ; N ; O ; Y

M

Fleqsuvy

Baclofen Susp

25 MG/5ML

M ; N ; O ; Y

O ; Y

POLICY AGENT SUMMARY QUANTITY LIMIT

Target Brand Agent Name(s)

Target Generic Agent Name(s)

Strength

QL Amount

Dose Form

Day Supply

Duration

Addtl QL Info

Allowed Exceptions

Targeted NDCs When Exclusions Exist

Fleqsuvy

Baclofen Susp

25 MG/5ML

480

mLs

30

DAYS

Lyvispah

Baclofen Granules Packet

5  ; 5 MG

120

Packets

30

DAYS

Lyvispah

Baclofen Granules Packet

10  ; 10 MG

120

Packets

30

DAYS

Lyvispah

Baclofen Granules Packet

20  ; 20 MG

120

Packets

30

DAYS

Ozobax

Baclofen Oral Soln 5 MG/5ML

5 MG/5ML

2400

mLs

30

DAYS

Ozobax ds

baclofen oral soln

10 MG/5ML

1200

mLs

30

DAYS

CLIENT SUMMARY – PRIOR AUTHORIZATION

Target Brand Agent Name(s)

Target Generic Agent Name(s)

Strength

Client Formulary

Fleqsuvy

Baclofen Susp

25 MG/5ML

Blue Partner ; Commercial ; GenPlus ; Health Insurance Marketplace ; NetResults A Series

Lyvispah

Baclofen Granules Packet

20  ; 20 MG

Blue Partner ; Commercial ; GenPlus ; Health Insurance Marketplace ; NetResults A Series

Lyvispah

Baclofen Granules Packet

10  ; 10 MG

Blue Partner ; Commercial ; GenPlus ; Health Insurance Marketplace ; NetResults A Series

Lyvispah

Baclofen Granules Packet

5  ; 5 MG

Blue Partner ; Commercial ; GenPlus ; Health Insurance Marketplace ; NetResults A Series

Ozobax

Baclofen Oral Soln 5 MG/5ML

5 MG/5ML

Blue Partner ; Commercial ; GenPlus ; Health Insurance Marketplace ; NetResults A Series

Ozobax ds

baclofen oral soln

10 MG/5ML

Blue Partner ; Commercial ; GenPlus ; Health Insurance Marketplace ; NetResults A Series

CLIENT SUMMARY – QUANTITY LIMITS

Target Brand Agent Name(s)

Target Generic Agent Name(s)

Strength

Client Formulary

Fleqsuvy

Baclofen Susp

25 MG/5ML

Blue Partner ; Commercial ; GenPlus ; Health Insurance Marketplace ; NetResults A Series

Lyvispah

Baclofen Granules Packet

10  ; 10 MG

Blue Partner ; Commercial ; GenPlus ; Health Insurance Marketplace ; NetResults A Series

Lyvispah

Baclofen Granules Packet

5  ; 5 MG

Blue Partner ; Commercial ; GenPlus ; Health Insurance Marketplace ; NetResults A Series

Lyvispah

Baclofen Granules Packet

20  ; 20 MG

Blue Partner ; Commercial ; GenPlus ; Health Insurance Marketplace ; NetResults A Series

Ozobax

Baclofen Oral Soln 5 MG/5ML

5 MG/5ML

Blue Partner ; Commercial ; GenPlus ; Health Insurance Marketplace ; NetResults A Series

Ozobax ds

baclofen oral soln

10 MG/5ML

Blue Partner ; Commercial ; GenPlus ; Health Insurance Marketplace ; NetResults A Series

PRIOR AUTHORIZATION CLINICAL CRITERIA FOR APPROVAL

Module

Clinical Criteria for Approval

Initial Evaluation

Target Agent(s) will be approved when ALL of the following are met:

  1. ONE of the following:
    1. The patient has a diagnosis of spasticity resulting from multiple sclerosis (MS) AND BOTH of the following:
      1. The requested agent will be used for at least ONE of the following:
        1. Flexor spasms and concomitant pain OR
        2. Clonus OR
        3. Muscular rigidity AND
      2. ONE of the following:
        1. BOTH of the following:
          1. ONE of the following:
            1. The patient has an intolerance or hypersensitivity to generic baclofen tablets that is not expected to occur with the requested agent OR
            2. The patient has an FDA labeled contraindication to generic baclofen tablets that is not expected to occur with the requested agent OR
            3. The prescriber has provided information to support use of the requested agent over generic baclofen tablets AND
          2. ONE of the following:
            1. The patient has tried and had an inadequate response to another muscle relaxant (e.g., dantrolene, tizanidine) used for spasticity related to multiple sclerosis OR
            2. The patient has an intolerance or hypersensitivity to ALL muscle relaxants used for spasticity related to multiple sclerosis OR
            3. The patient has an FDA labeled contraindication to ALL muscle relaxants used for spasticity related to multiple sclerosis OR
        2. The prescriber has provided information on why the patient is unable to use a solid dosage form (e.g., difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules) OR
    2. The patient has a diagnosis of spasticity related to spinal cord injury or other spinal cord disease AND ONE of the following:
      1. BOTH of the following:
        1. ONE of the following:
          1. The patient has an intolerance or hypersensitivity to generic baclofen tablets that is not expected to occur with the requested agent OR
          2. The patient has an FDA labeled contraindication to generic baclofen tablets that is not expected to occur with the requested agent OR
          3. The prescriber has provided information to support use of the requested agent over generic baclofen tablets AND
        2. ONE of the following:
          1. The patient has tried and had an inadequate response another muscle relaxant (e.g., dantrolene, pregabalin, tizanidine) used for spasticity related to spinal cord injuries or other spinal diseases OR
          2. The patient has an intolerance, or hypersensitivity to ALL muscle relaxants used for spasticity related to spinal cord injuries or other spinal cord diseases OR
          3. The patient has an FDA labeled contraindication to ALL muscle relaxants used for spasticity related to spinal cord injuries or other spinal cord diseases OR
      2. The prescriber has provided information on why the patient is unable to use a solid dosage form (e.g., difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules) AND
  2. The patient does NOT have any FDA labeled contraindications to the requested agent

Length of Approval:  6 months

NOTE: If Quantity Limit applies, please refer to Quantity Limit Criteria.

 

Renewal Evaluation

Target Agent(s) will be approved when ALL of the following are met:

  1. The patient has been previously approved for the requested agent through the plan’s Prior Authorization process AND
  2. The patient has had clinical benefit with the requested agent (e.g., decreased spasms) AND
  3. The patient does NOT have any FDA labeled contraindications to the requested agent

Length of Approval:  12 months

NOTE: If Quantity Limit applies, please refer to Quantity Limit Criteria.

QUANTITY LIMIT CLINICAL CRITERIA FOR APPROVAL

Module

Clinical Criteria for Approval

QL with PA

Quantity Limit for the Target Agent(s) will be approved when ONE of the following is met:

  1. The requested quantity (dose) does NOT exceed the program quantity limit OR
  2. ALL of the following:
    1. The requested quantity (dose) is greater than the program quantity limit AND
    2. The requested quantity (dose) does NOT exceed the maximum FDA labeled dose for the requested indication AND
    3. The requested quantity (dose) cannot be achieved with a lower quantity of a higher strength that does not exceed the program quantity limit

Length of Approval: Initial: 6 months, Renewal:12 months

 

This pharmacy policy is not an authorization, certification, explanation of benefits or a contract. Eligibility and benefits are determined on a case-by-case basis according to the terms of the member’s plan in effect as of the date services are rendered. All pharmacy policies are based on (i) information in FDA approved package inserts (and black box warning, alerts, or other information disseminated by the FDA as applicable); (ii) research of current medical and pharmacy literature; and/or (iii) review of common medical practices in the treatment and diagnosis of disease as of the date hereof. Physicians and other providers are solely responsible for all aspects of medical care and treatment, including the type, quality, and levels of care and treatment.


The purpose of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama’s pharmacy policies are to provide a guide to coverage. Pharmacy policies are not intended to dictate to physicians how to practice medicine. Physicians should exercise their medical judgment in providing the care they feel is most appropriate for their patients.

Neither this policy, nor the successful adjudication of a pharmacy claim, is guarantee of payment.

 

 

 

Commercial _ PS _ Baclofen _PAQL _ProgSum_ 1/1/2024