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Inebilizumab-cdon (Uplizna) (CPB 0975, reviewed 2026-08-11)

Aetna·Neurology, Rheumatology·Medical Policy
Effective date
Aug 11, 2026
We identified it
Aug 15, 2026
Days to comply

Summary

Aetna has issued a new Clinical Policy Bulletin (CPB 0975) effective immediately for inebilizumab-cdon (Uplizna), establishing coverage criteria for three indications: neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD), and generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG). All prescriptions require precertification, and billing teams must implement prior authorization workflows and ensure proper documentation of antibody positivity and clinical classification before claims submission.

Action Required

Action needed
Immediately: Billing and authorization teams must implement precertification workflow for all Aetna members requesting inebilizumab-cdon (Uplizna). Route all precertification requests to (866) 752-7021 or fax (888) 267-3277. Update billing system to flag HCPCS code J1823 for mandatory prior authorization. Before claim submission, verify documentation includes: (1) For NMOSD: anti-aquaporin-4 antibody positivity (CPT 86051, 86052, or 86053) AND one core clinical characteristic; (2) For IgG4-RD: clinical diagnosis confirmed by radiologic/pathologic evidence, recent IgG4-RD flare requiring glucocorticoid (within 4 weeks), and multi-organ involvement history; (3) For gMG: anti-AChR or anti-MuSK antibody positivity (CPT 86041, 86042, 86043, or 86366) AND MGFA classification II-IV AND MG-ADL score ≥5 AND documented failed prior therapies. Ensure prescribing specialty restrictions are enforced (neurologist for NMOSD/gMG, rheumatologist for IgG4-RD). Deny claims submitted without precertification or missing required clinical documentation. Update encounter forms and EMR templates to capture all required clinical criteria. Train providers on site of service requirements per Utilization Management Policy on Site of Care for Specialty Drug Infusions.

Affected Billing Codes

J1823
96365
96366
96367
96368
86041
86042
86043
86366
86051
86052
86053