In my situation once a drug is preauthorized that's it..no more authorization needed. I am going through that with BP med right now. The insurance co. wanted me to try and old cheap drug first before they would allow coverage on a new expensive drug. It was all a surprise when I went to get the newer drug filled and the pharmacist said it was not covered by Express-Scripts. The doc did not know of this situation either but after many calls and explanations he caught on. My trial period is over and now I may use the newer drug.

Now..Express-Scripts had provided a website for its members so they can check what is covered and what is not covered. Extensive lists of various meds are posted with pricing.

In some cases like Xanax there is 0 coverage but if you use a cheaper drug almost identicle to Xanax it is covered.
jb

I just went through this yesterday with express scripts. When I went to get my pain med filled they told me it needed to be pre authorized. This is the first time this has happened. I usually don't take as many as I am prescribed so I don't have the worry about running out but it sure is a hassle to call doc and get this done. Just one more hoop to jump through I guess...SUe

I've been sicker than a dog this whole week trying to conform to Pre-Authorization for Lidoderm Patches. They sent my Dr. a list of 4 meds I have to try before they authorize the Lidoderm. I'm so stinking furious for having to suffer like this taking meds that have nothing to do with the patch I want/need. Being very med sensitive to start with, this is going to be a long long haul.

My best wishes for everyone having to deal with this.