Skip to content
The Policy VaultThe Policy Vault

requested opioid agent (non-preferred vs Xtampza)Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois

associated condition related to stage four advanced metastatic cancer

Preferred products

  • Xtampza

Initial criteria

  • Diagnosis must be related to stage four advanced metastatic cancer [chart notes required] AND use is consistent with best practices for such cancer, supported by evidence-based literature and FDA approval OR
  • Patient is currently treated and stable on the requested agent [chart notes required] OR
  • Patient tried and had an inadequate response to Xtampza [chart notes required] OR
  • Xtampza was discontinued due to lack of efficacy, diminished effect, or adverse event [chart notes required] OR
  • Intolerance or hypersensitivity to Xtampza not expected with requested agent [chart notes required] OR
  • FDA labeled contraindication to Xtampza not expected with requested agent [chart notes required] OR
  • Xtampza expected to be ineffective or to cause significant barrier, worsen comorbid condition, decrease daily functional ability, cause adverse reaction, or physical/mental harm [chart notes required] OR
  • Xtampza not in best interest based on medical necessity [chart notes required] OR
  • Tried another prescription drug in same pharmacologic class/mechanism as Xtampza and discontinued due to lack of efficacy, diminished effect, or adverse event [chart notes required] AND
  • A formal consultative evaluation includes ALL of the following: diagnosis; complete medical history including pharmacological/non-pharmacological therapy; need for continued opioid therapy assessed [chart notes required] AND
  • Prescriber has reviewed state PDMP controlled substance record AND
  • Patient is routinely (≥ every 3 months) assessed for function, pain status, and opioid dose AND
  • ONE of the following: patient not concurrently using benzodiazepine OR use with benzodiazepine supported

Approval duration

12 months