REBLOZYL (luspatercept) 


OFFICE ADMINISTRATION


Indications for Prior Authorization:
  • Indicated for the treatment of anemia in adult patients with beta thalassemia who require regular red blood cell (RBC) transfusions
Patients must meet the following criteria for the indication(s) above:
  • Patient is 18 years of age or older, AND
  • Patient has a diagnosis of beta thalassemia, AND
  • Prescribed by or in consultation with a hematologist, AND
  • Chart note documenting baseline transfusion burden within the past 6 months, AND
  • Patient has been receiving regular RBC transfusions (6-20 RBC units per 6 months), AND
  • Had no transfusion-free period >35 days within the past 6 months
  • Please note: may cause fetal harm. Advise females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus and use of effective contraception. Advise not to breastfeed
Reauthorization criteria:
  • Patient is responding positively to Reblozyl® (e.g. patient received at least 33% reduction in transfusion burden from baseline), OR

  • Patient is requesting dose increase (maximum dose is 1.25 mg/kg every 3 weeks) and chart notes show an inadequate response to 1 mg/kg dose

Dosing:
  • Starting dose: 1 mg/kg once every 3 weeks by subcutaneous injection
  • If the patient does not achieve a reduction in RBC transfusion burden after at least 2 consecutive doses (6 weeks) at the 1 mg/kg starting dose, increase the Reblozyl® dose to 1.25 mg/kg
  • Maximum dose of 1.25 mg/kg
  • Discontinue Reblozyl® if a patient does not experience a decrease in transfusion burden after 9 weeks of treatment (administration of 3 doses) at the maximum dose level or if unacceptable toxicity occurs at any time
Approval:
  • Initial: 2 months
  • 1st renewal: 6 months
  • 2nd renewal: 1 year
     

Last review date: February 18, 2020

Friday, July 19 Breaking News: A widespread computer software outage is impacting systems across the globe. Health care services in Northern California are reporting some disruption. WHA encourages members to call ahead to your provider if you have an appointment scheduled for today or this weekend.