Generic
Plavix® Available Soon; Medco Offering Split DispensingThe generic version of
Plavix (clopidogrel), a drug used to help prevent harmful blood clots that may leadto heart attacks or strokes, is expected to be available for doctors to prescribe in May 2012. In late
February, Medco will mail letters and a Frequently Asked Questions document to our members who have
filled a prescription for
Plavix through the Medco Pharmacy® mail-order service within the past 120 daysto notify them of the upcoming availability of the generic drug.
The letter also announces a new dispensing method Medco may selectively use as future generic drugs are
launched and meet certain criteria (e.g., available from multiple sources immediately instead of one
exclusive manufacturer). In anticipation of generic
Plavix, Medco will dispense partial supplies of thebrand-name drug to members who order a new prescription or request a refill through the Medco Pharmacy
within 90 days of the generic’s expected launch date. The remainder of the prescription will be filled with
the generic version when it becomes available. The cost of the partial supply will be pro-rated for the
member based on how much of
Plavix is supplied and how much of clopidogrel will be supplied.Please educate your customers about this potential cost-saving development.