MedicaidCoverageMedium impact
Chantix Shortage –Temporary Distribution of Apo-Varenicline 0.5 mg and 1 mg Tablets
Illinois Medicaid - HFS·IL · Family Medicine, General Practice, Internal Medicine +1 more·Provider Notice
Effective date
Sep 3, 2021
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
Due to a Chantix shortage, Medicaid now temporarily covers Apo-Varenicline 0.5mg and 1mg tablets as an alternative smoking cessation medication. This applies to both Medicaid fee-for-service and managed care plans during the shortage period.
Action Required
Immediately: Pharmacies must bill the specific NDC codes when dispensing Apo-Varenicline (60505-4765-5 for 0.5mg, 60505-4766-6 for 1mg). Update pharmacy billing systems to recognize these new NDC codes as covered under Medicaid. For fee-for-service questions, contact Bureau of Professional and Ancillary Services at 877-782-5565. For managed care coverage questions, contact the applicable plan directly.