Date: September 3, 2021
To: Enrolled Physicians and Pharmacies
Re: Chantix Shortage –Temporary Distribution of Apo-Varenicline 0.5 mg and 1 mg Tablets
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This notice informs providers that due to a current shortage of Chantix (varenicline) manufactured by Pfizer, the Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) is temporarily covering
Apo-Varenicline (varenicline) 0.5 mg and 1 mg tablets. This applies to the Medicaid fee-for-service program and the Medicaid managed care plans.
For the duration of the Chantix shortage, the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is allowing coverage of the imported drug Apo-Varenicline, manufactured by Apotex, under an optional benefit for prescribed drugs.
| Product Name | Quantity | Tablet Description | U.S. NDC
|
| Apo-Varenicline (varenicline tartrate) tablet, 0.5 mg (free base equivalent) | Bottle of 56 tablets | White colored, modified capsule-shaped, biconvex, film coated tablets, engraved with "APO" on one side and "VAR" over "0.5" on the other side. | 60505-4765-5 |
| Apo-Varenicline (varenicline tartrate) tablet, 1 mg (free base equivalent) | Bottle of 56 tablets | Blue colored, modified capsule-shaped, biconvex, film coated tablets, engraved with "APO" on one side and "VAR" over "1" on the other side. | 60505-4766-6 |
Pharmacies are required to bill the NDC they are dispensing.
Questions regarding the temporary coverage of Apo-Varenicline in the fee-for-service program may be directed to a pharmacy billing consultant in the Bureau of Professional and Ancillary Services at 877-782-5565. Questions regarding coverage under managed care should be directed to the applicable plan.
Kelly Cunningham, Administrator
Division of Medical Programs
