Does UPMC Health Plan Cover Liraglutide (Saxenda)

Explore Liraglutide (Saxenda) coverage by UPMC Health Plan, including denial reasons, tips for approval, costs without insurance, and FAQs.
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UPMC Health Plan Coverage for Liraglutide (Saxenda)

 

  • Liraglutide (Saxenda) for weight management may be covered by UPMC Health Plan under specific conditions. Check member benefits for precise details.
  •  

  • Coverage generally applies if the medication is part of a comprehensive weight management program, including lifestyle interventions like diet and exercise.
  •  

  • Requirements often include a certain BMI threshold or diagnosis of obesity-related conditions, like type 2 diabetes or hypertension.
  •  

  • Prior authorization from UPMC may be necessary to approve the prescription, requiring documentation supporting its medical necessity.
  •  

  • Consult your healthcare provider to ensure that all criteria align with UPMC guidelines, and confirm with UPMC customer service for the most current information.

 

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Curex is poised to revolutionize the way allergies are treated in America, expanding access to clinical care and treatments that can meaningfully improve patients quality of life.

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At Curex, our mission is to help people improve their health and quality of life by understanding their allergies and treating them at their source.We provide more than individualized prescription treatments; we provide individualized care.

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Immunotherapy made simple.  We enable patients to receive personalized allergy care on their own time. No more waiting rooms.

Dr. Chet Tharpe, Medical Director

Curex has set the standard for the virtual allergy experience. From the comfort of their home, patients nationwide are able to receive a personalized treatment plan from an experienced clinician, aimed at treating the source of their allergies, not just the symptoms.

Kayla Mardaga, NP

Curex offers convenient at-home allergy testing options. Our goal is to determine if a patient would benefit from immunotherapy and then customize a treatment plan that can reduce both the symptoms and the reliance on allergy medications.

How to Get Liraglutide (Saxenda) Coverage with UPMC Health Plan

 

Verify Your Eligibility

 

  • Contact UPMC Health Plan customer service to ensure that your policy covers weight management medications like Liraglutide (Saxenda).
  • Review your plan's details either online or through your insurance documents to confirm coverage.
  • Ensure that you meet any prerequisites required, such as a certain BMI or obesity-related condition, for coverage of weight management prescriptions.

 

Consult with Your Healthcare Provider

 

  • Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss whether Liraglutide (Saxenda) is an appropriate treatment for you.
  • Discuss your weight loss goals and medical history to ensure Liraglutide is recommended.
  • Request your healthcare provider to write a prescription if deemed appropriate.

 

Gather Necessary Documentation

 

  • Obtain a copy of the prescription from your healthcare provider.
  • Prepare any additional documentation needed such as your BMI records, medical history, or a letter of medical necessity from your doctor.

 

Submit a Prior Authorization Request

 

  • Contact UPMC Health Plan to inquire if prior authorization is required for Liraglutide (Saxenda).
  • If required, have your healthcare provider fill out and submit the necessary prior authorization forms.
  • Ensure all required documentation is included with the prior authorization request.

 

Follow Up on the Prior Authorization

 

  • Regularly check the status of your prior authorization request with UPMC Health Plan.
  • If your request is denied, inquire about the appeals process and gather further documentation that may aid in overturning the denial.
  • Communicate with your healthcare provider about any additional information that can support the appeal.

 

Review Your Prescription Coverage

 

  • Once authorization is approved, review your prescription benefits to understand the copayment or coinsurance for Liraglutide (Saxenda).
  • Confirm the preferred pharmacy or mail-order option required by your plan to minimize costs.
  • Ensure you follow any guidelines or steps required by UPMC Health Plan for refills or continued coverage.

 

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FAQs

Does UPMC Health Plan Cover Liraglutide (Saxenda)

Explore Liraglutide (Saxenda) coverage by UPMC Health Plan, including denial reasons, tips for approval, costs without insurance, and FAQs.
Curex allergy drops unboxing

Is Liraglutide (Saxenda) Covered by UPMC Health Plan

 

UPMC Health Plan Coverage for Liraglutide (Saxenda)

 

  • Liraglutide (Saxenda) for weight management may be covered by UPMC Health Plan under specific conditions. Check member benefits for precise details.
  •  

  • Coverage generally applies if the medication is part of a comprehensive weight management program, including lifestyle interventions like diet and exercise.
  •  

  • Requirements often include a certain BMI threshold or diagnosis of obesity-related conditions, like type 2 diabetes or hypertension.
  •  

  • Prior authorization from UPMC may be necessary to approve the prescription, requiring documentation supporting its medical necessity.
  •  

  • Consult your healthcare provider to ensure that all criteria align with UPMC guidelines, and confirm with UPMC customer service for the most current information.

 

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UPMC Health Plan's Approved Criteria for Liraglutide (Saxenda) Coverage

 

Eligibility Criteria for Coverage

 

  • Members must have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or greater, or a BMI of 27 kg/m2 or greater with at least one weight-related comorbid condition such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or dyslipidemia.
  •  

  • The medication must be prescribed as part of a comprehensive weight management program that includes dietary changes, increased physical activity, and behavioral modifications.
  •  

  • Documented history of inability to achieve adequate weight loss with a structured weight loss program alone, supported by healthcare provider notes.

 

Prescriber Requirements

 

  • Liraglutide (Saxenda) must be prescribed by an endocrinologist, bariatric specialist, or healthcare provider experienced in obesity management.
  •  

  • A documented consultation with the prescriber confirming the patient meets the necessary clinical criteria is required.

 

Required Documentation

 

  • Electronic or written records demonstrating that the patient's weight management plan adheres to evidence-based guidelines for weight loss and that other therapeutic interventions have not been successful.
  •  

  • Submission of treatment goals, including specific weight loss targets and health improvements, as part of the comprehensive treatment plan.

 

Renewal Criteria

 

  • Continued coverage requires documented evidence of a clinically significant weight loss (usually defined as at least a 5% reduction in body weight) within the initial six months of treatment.
  •  

  • Evidence of ongoing compliance with the comprehensive weight management program designed for the patient.

Why UPMC Health Plan Might Deny Liraglutide (Saxenda) Coverage

 

Situations Where UPMC Health Plan Does Not Cover Liraglutide (Saxenda)

 

  • **Off-label Use**: Liraglutide (Saxenda) may not be covered if used for conditions that are not FDA-approved for this medication, such as diabetes treatment, as Saxenda is specifically approved for weight management.
  •  

  • **Lack of Prior Authorization**: If prior authorization is not obtained before prescription, it is likely that the coverage will be denied.
  •  

  • **Non-compliance with BMI Requirements**: Patients who do not meet the specified body mass index (BMI) criteria as outlined in the plan's policy might face denial of coverage. For example, if the patient's BMI is below the required threshold for obesity treatment.
  •  

  • **Alternative Therapies Not Explored**: If there are less expensive or more conservative weight management measures that have not been previously attempted or documented as inadequate, the plan may deny coverage.
  •  

  • **Short-term Use**: Coverage may be denied if the usage duration is shorter than what is established in the medical necessity guidelines or if Saxenda is being used for cosmetic weight loss.
  •  

  • **Age Limitations**: Patients who do not fall within the approved age range specified for Saxenda within the policy may not receive coverage.
  •  

  • **Duplicate Therapy**: If the patient is currently receiving treatment with a similar weight management drug, this may result in a denial to prevent duplication of therapy.

 

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How Much Does Liraglutide (Saxenda) Cost without Insurance?

 

Liraglutide (Saxenda) Cost without Insurance

 

  • The cost of Liraglutide, commonly marketed under the brand name Saxenda, can vary based on location and pharmacy, but it typically ranges between $1,300 and $1,500 for a 30-day supply, which includes five injectable pens.
  •  

  • Prices can fluctuate due to factors like pharmacy pricing policies, manufacturer offers, and location. It is advisable to compare prices from various pharmacies or online sources.
  •  

  • Pharmacies may offer discount programs or coupons that could reduce the out-of-pocket cost. It's a good idea to inquire about available savings options.
  •  

  • Some online pharmacy platforms may provide competitive pricing and discounts, so checking these can be beneficial for finding better deals.
  •  

  • Prescription assistance programs, sometimes offered by the manufacturer, can provide help for individuals who meet certain income or insurance criteria. Exploring these options might also lead to cost savings.

 

Our team is here to help!

Dr. Neeta Ogden, MD

Curex is poised to revolutionize the way allergies are treated in America, expanding access to clinical care and treatments that can meaningfully improve patients quality of life.

Dr. Ravi Patel, VP Telemedicine

At Curex, our mission is to help people improve their health and quality of life by understanding their allergies and treating them at their source.We provide more than individualized prescription treatments; we provide individualized care.

Jill Hamburg, PA - C

Immunotherapy made simple.  We enable patients to receive personalized allergy care on their own time. No more waiting rooms.

Dr. Chet Tharpe, Medical Director

Curex has set the standard for the virtual allergy experience. From the comfort of their home, patients nationwide are able to receive a personalized treatment plan from an experienced clinician, aimed at treating the source of their allergies, not just the symptoms.

Kayla Mardaga, NP

Curex offers convenient at-home allergy testing options. Our goal is to determine if a patient would benefit from immunotherapy and then customize a treatment plan that can reduce both the symptoms and the reliance on allergy medications.

How to Get Liraglutide (Saxenda) Coverage with UPMC Health Plan

 

Verify Your Eligibility

 

  • Contact UPMC Health Plan customer service to ensure that your policy covers weight management medications like Liraglutide (Saxenda).
  • Review your plan's details either online or through your insurance documents to confirm coverage.
  • Ensure that you meet any prerequisites required, such as a certain BMI or obesity-related condition, for coverage of weight management prescriptions.

 

Consult with Your Healthcare Provider

 

  • Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss whether Liraglutide (Saxenda) is an appropriate treatment for you.
  • Discuss your weight loss goals and medical history to ensure Liraglutide is recommended.
  • Request your healthcare provider to write a prescription if deemed appropriate.

 

Gather Necessary Documentation

 

  • Obtain a copy of the prescription from your healthcare provider.
  • Prepare any additional documentation needed such as your BMI records, medical history, or a letter of medical necessity from your doctor.

 

Submit a Prior Authorization Request

 

  • Contact UPMC Health Plan to inquire if prior authorization is required for Liraglutide (Saxenda).
  • If required, have your healthcare provider fill out and submit the necessary prior authorization forms.
  • Ensure all required documentation is included with the prior authorization request.

 

Follow Up on the Prior Authorization

 

  • Regularly check the status of your prior authorization request with UPMC Health Plan.
  • If your request is denied, inquire about the appeals process and gather further documentation that may aid in overturning the denial.
  • Communicate with your healthcare provider about any additional information that can support the appeal.

 

Review Your Prescription Coverage

 

  • Once authorization is approved, review your prescription benefits to understand the copayment or coinsurance for Liraglutide (Saxenda).
  • Confirm the preferred pharmacy or mail-order option required by your plan to minimize costs.
  • Ensure you follow any guidelines or steps required by UPMC Health Plan for refills or continued coverage.

 

Premium Medication you can trust

Our weight loss medication is delivered straight to your doorstep from a state-licensed pharmacy within our reliable network, ensuring you receive your medication when you need it.

Each pharmacy in our network undergoes rigorous third-party testing through FDA and DEA certified labs. These tests focus on four key elements, ensuring both safety and efficacy for our treatments.

Liraglutide (Saxenda) FAQ

How much weight can you lose with Saxenda?

 

Weight Loss with Saxenda

 

  • Clinical trials show Saxenda users can lose an average of 5-10% of their initial body weight over 56 weeks.
  •  

  • Weight loss can vary depending on factors such as initial weight, diet, and physical activity.
  •  

  • Combining Saxenda with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity enhances results.
  •  

  • It's important to monitor progress and consult with a healthcare provider to tailor the plan to individual needs.
  •  

  • Results are not guaranteed, and lifestyle changes significantly influence effectiveness.

What are the side effects of Liraglutide?

 

Common Side Effects

 

  • Nausea, particularly when starting treatment.
  • Vomiting or diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration.
  • Reduced appetite, a desired effect for weight management.
  • Headaches and dizziness, usually mild to moderate.

 

Serious Side Effects

 

  • Severe abdominal pain, signaling possible pancreatitis.
  • Symptoms of thyroid tumors, such as neck swelling or difficulty swallowing.
  • Serious allergic reactions, including hives or breath difficulty.
  • Elevated heart rate or palpitations.

 

Recommendations

 

  • Alert healthcare providers about any side effects.
  • Hydrate well to minimize dehydration from gastrointestinal effects.
  • Monitor blood sugar if diabetic, as levels may change.

 

How does Saxenda work for weight loss?

 

Mechanism of Action

 

  • Saxenda (liraglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It mimics the action of the glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone involved in appetite regulation.
  •  

  • It enhances insulin secretion and delays gastric emptying, promoting a feeling of fullness.

 

Appetite Suppression

 

  • Saxenda targets areas of the brain that control hunger, reducing appetite and calorie intake.
  •  

  • This helps in forming healthier eating habits and better portion control.

 

Additional Benefits

 

  • Besides weight loss, it assists in improving glycemic control for type 2 diabetes patients.
  •  

  • May lead to reductions in waist circumference and improvements in cardiovascular measures.

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Everything you need is included:

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A weight management program tailored to you

Initial Dosage

Your initial medication and dosage are carefully determined by doctors, taking into account your unique health profile. This ensures a personalized and safe treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Titration

We gradually adjust your dosage to reach the optimal therapeutic level, ensuring maximum effectiveness while minimizing potential side effects.

Additional Treatments

Our providers may also recommend medications such as metformin or supplements such as vitamin B12. We recognize the importance of managing side effects, so your care plan may include medication to alleviate them.

Got questions? We have answers.

Do your plans include prescriptions and medications?

Curex plans cover everything from reviewing your medical intake to providing prescription medications, with free shipping included. There are no extra or hidden charges. Prescriptions are issued only after a medical provider reviews your information to confirm that the medication is suitable for you. Our service includes continuous support and regular follow-ups to ensure your treatment stays on track.

Our clinicians may order labs and additional medications for you, which would not be covered by the plan but for which you can use your insurance.

Please note: Compounded medications are tailored to individual needs or used in case of shortages, but they are not FDA-approved for safety or effectiveness. A prescription is required. Results may vary from person to person.

What medications do your providers prescribe?

We prioritize a personalized approach to your health. If your medical provider prescribes medication, options may include GLP-1 treatments such as compounded semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy®* and Ozempic®*). Our providers prescribe only combination treatments not available at your local pharmacy that may include vitamin B12, etc. to help you achieve your goals faster.

Depending on your treatment goals, other medications such as metformin may also be considered. We recognize the importance of managing side effects, so your care plan might include medication to ease symptoms like nausea. Your well-being is always our top priority!

Please note that compounded medications are customized to meet individual patient needs and are not FDA-approved for safety or effectiveness. A prescription is necessary. Results may vary from person to person.

Curex and its pharmacy partners do not have any association with Novo Nordisk.

Will I be prescribed semaglutide if I sign up?

Your health journey is unique, and we tailor our care to match. Any prescriptions, including semaglutide, will be based on the expert assessment of the medical provider matched with you through our platform. You can trust that your treatment plan will be personalized to fit your specific needs. And if semaglutide is not prescribed, we will provide a full refund.

What is compounded medication?

Compounding involves creating customized medications to meet the specific needs of individual patients. For instance, a patient may require a liquid version of a medication that is only available in tablet form. Pharmacies can also compound medications using FDA-approved drugs that are on the FDA’s shortage list.

These compounded medications are made by state-licensed pharmacies that follow both federal and state regulations, including quality standards. However, when compounded in accordance with these laws, these medications are not subject to FDA approval and are not evaluated for safety or effectiveness.

Is compounded medication the same as generic medication?

Compounded medications differ from generic drugs. Generics require FDA approval by demonstrating bio-equivalence to the brand-name drug. In contrast, compounded medications are not FDA-approved. They are made based on a personalized prescription that may not be commercially available elsewhere or when a drug appears on the FDA’s shortage list. Compounding pharmacies must have the proper licensed facilities and comply with state and federal regulations before dispensing these medications.

Is insurance required?

No, Curex doesn’t require insurance. We offer clear and simple pricing, along with affordable medication options, making it easy and accessible to take care of your health.

Can I pay with an FSA or HSA card?

Yes! You can pay with your HSA or FSA card.

How much does treatment cost?

Semaglutide Injections:

Prices for semaglutide start at only $149 per month for weekly doses of 0.25mg and 0.5mg. You can cancel anytime. Some people experience weight loss at these doses and higher doses aren't advisable due to a higher risk of side effects. If you need a higher dose to achieve your weight loss goals, we offer higher-dose plans for 1mg, 1.7mg and 2.4mg of semaglutide for an additional $50 per month for each plan.

Tirzepatide Injections:

Prices for tirzepatide start at only $249 per month for weekly doses of 2.5mg and 5mg of tirzepatide.You can cancel anytime. Some people experience weight loss at these doses and higher doses aren't advisable due to a higher risk of side effects. If you need a higher dose to achieve your weight loss goals, we offer higher-dose plans for 7.5mg, 10mg and 12.5mg of tirzepatide for an additional $100 per month for each plan.

Semaglutide Tablets:

Prices for semaglutide tablets start at only $149 per month for daily doses of 2mg. You can cancel anytime. Some people experience weight loss at this dose and higher doses aren't advisable due to a higher risk of side effects. If you need a higher dose to achieve your weight loss goals, we offer higher-dose plans for 4mg and 8mg of semaglutide daily for an additional $50 per month for each plan.

Tirzepatide Tablets:

Prices for tirzepatide start at only $199 per month for daily dosees of 3mg of tirzepatide. You can cancel anytime. Some people experience weight loss at these doses and higher doses aren't advisable due to a higher risk of side effects. If you need a higher dose to achieve your weight loss goals, we offer higher-dose plans for 6mg and 12 mg of tirzepatide daily for an additional $100 per month for each plan.

Can you prescribe Ozempic®* or Wegovy®*?

Our providers focus on personalized medications and dosages that aren’t commercially available at your local pharmacy. While we don’t prescribe Ozempic®* or Wegovy®* directly, we may prescribe treatments containing the same active ingredient. These medications are specially compounded for you by a licensed pharmacy to meet your specific needs.

Are video visits with a provider required?

Our providers will review your information 100% online. Depending on where you live and the specifics of your medical history, our providers may require you to have a video visit or asynchronous visit via text message. If prescribed, you’ll get unlimited online access to message your provider as needed for follow-ups, adjustments, and answers to your questions.

What states do you serve?

Currently, we do not serve Arkansas, Connecticut, and New Mexico. However, we are always working to expand our reach, so stay in touch with us at hi@getcurex.com.

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