February 2026 UPMC for You and UPMC Community HealthChoices formulary update
Feb. 2026Pharmacy Updates
Pulmicort Flexhaler has a new distributor, Rubicon Holding. National Drug Codes (NDCs) for Pulmicort Flexhaler from Rubicon Holding are not included in the Medicaid Drug Rebate program and are not covered under the Medicaid Prescription Drug Program. Pulmicort Flexhaler NDCs from the previous manufacturer, H2 Pharma, have been discontinued but may be billed/dispensed until supplies are exhausted.
To avoid denials at the pharmacy, prescribers are encouraged to begin transitioning current Pulmicort Flexhaler patients to covered alternatives as soon as possible.
Preferred/Covered PDL alternatives for Pulmicort Flexhaler include the following*:
- Arnuity Ellipta
- Asmanex HFA
- Asmanex Twisthaler
- Budesonide 0.25 mg/2 mL and 0.5 mg/2 mL Respules
- Qvar Redihaler
- Fluticasone Propionate HFA for patients < 19 years old
*The DHS PDL is subject to review and may be revised periodically.
Recent Announcements
CME Webinar: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s ‘Talk Saves Lives’ Program
Please join us on Tuesday, April 28, from noon to 1 p.m. for “Talk Saves Lives: An Introduction to Suicide Prevention.” This live, CME-accredited webinar is the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s flagship suicide prevention education program. It covers the scope of this leading cause of death, warning signs and risk factors for suicide, and strategies to prevent it.Feb. 2026Education/Webinars
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Please remember that you must adhere to the designated process for submitting expedited appeals to have them processed in a timely manner. Follow these guidelines to help you successfully submit expedited appeals:Jan. 2026Important Notices