Medicare AdvantagePrior AuthMedium impact
Azopt® (brinzolamide ophthalmic suspension) (Revised)
Humana·Ophthalmology, Optometry·Medicare Advantage
Effective date
Jan 1, 2025
We identified it
Jun 24, 2026
Summary
Azopt (brinzolamide) eye drops now require step therapy for Medicare Advantage plans, meaning patients must try dorzolamide 2% eye drops first before coverage approval. This applies to both brand and generic versions used for glaucoma and ocular hypertension treatment.
Action Required
By January 1, 2025: Billing team must verify Medicare Advantage patients have tried dorzolamide 2% eye drops before prescribing Azopt (brinzolamide). Update prior authorization workflow to document previous dorzolamide treatment. Notify ophthalmology and optometry providers about step therapy requirement. Claims without documented dorzolamide trial will be denied.