Section 520. Drugs or drug categories which are not covered

Part VI. Drugs or Drug Categories

A. Agents when used for anorexia or weight gain. Coverage of anorexiants for other than weight loss requires medical justification. FDA-approved drug therapies and agents for weight loss, when preauthorized, will be covered for recipients who meet the strict disability standards for obesity established by the Social Security Administration in effect on April 7, 1999, and whose condition is certified as life threatening, consistent with Department of Medical Assistance Services' medical necessity requirements, by the treating physician.

B. Agents when used for cosmetic purposes or hair growth.

1. Minoxidil shall not be covered when prescribed for hair growth or other cosmetic purposes.

2. Agents containing hydroquinone or its derivatives which are used solely for depigmentation of the skin.

C. Agents used to promote fertility.

D. Expired drugs. Drugs dispensed past the labeled expiration date.

E. DESI Drugs. The Program shall not provide reimbursement for drugs determined by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to lack substantial evidence of effectiveness.

F. Nonlegend drugs. Nonlegend drugs, with those exceptions shown in 12VAC30-50-100 et seq., shall not be covered.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR460-03-3.1105, eff. April 1, 1993; amended, Volume 13, Issue 18, eff. July 1, 1997; Volume 15, Issue 23, eff. September 1, 1999.

Statutory Authority

§ 32.1-325 of the Code of Virginia.