All PlansCoverageMedium impact
Recall: Zelnorm
UPMC Health Plan·Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Family Medicine·Pharmacy
Effective date
Jun 30, 2022
We identified it
Aug 7, 2026
Summary
Alfasigma USA Inc. has discontinued Zelnorm® (tegaserod) in the U.S. marketplace effective June 30, 2022. This medication was used to treat irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) in adult women younger than 65 years old. Billing teams must identify patients on this medication and work with providers to transition to alternative therapies.
Action Required
By June 30, 2022: Billing and clinical teams must identify all patients currently prescribed Zelnorm® in the system. Coordinate with providers to transition affected patients to alternative IBS-C medications and document the change in the EMR. Update any standing orders or refill protocols to prevent billing claims for this discontinued medication after the effective date. Communicate with patients about the discontinuation and alternative treatment options. After June 30, 2022, deny or correct any claims submitted for Zelnorm® as it will no longer be a covered/available medication.