Leukotriene Modifiers Step Therapy Program

Clinical studies have shown that Singulair is not as effective as nasal corticosteroids for the treatment of allergic rhinitis.¹

New Prescriptions After July 1, 2007

Drugs Affected

• Singulair
• Accolate
• Zyflo

Program Details

For Leukotriene Modifiers to be a covered benefit for your patients 18 and older who do not have a diagnosis for asthma, you must follow these steps:

• The patient must try and fail BOTH a non-sedating antihistamine and a nasal corticosteroid to receive a Leukotriene Modifier for the treatment of allergies (allergic rhinitis)

When following step therapy guidelines, no prior authorization (PA) is necessary. The prescription for the Leukotriene Modifier will automatically approve if there is prior history in the claims system of both the non-sedating antihistamine and a nasal corticosteroid.

If you believe it is medically appropriate for you patient to “skip” steps, you will need to submit a prior authorization request and receive approval for the drug to be covered.

 ¹Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2003 May;90(5):536-42 and Am J Med 2004 Mar 1;116(5):338-44.

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