Epclusa, Harvoni first alternatives on Express Scripts' new formulary

Express Scripts Holding Co. (NASDAQ:ESRX) introduced a new formulary Tuesday to help lower out-of-pocket costs and reduce dependence on rebated brand products by including authorized alternative medicines with lower list prices. HCV drugs Epclusa sofosbuvir/velpatasvir and Harvoni ledipasvir/sofosbuvir are among the first alternatives available under the formulary.

Under the National Preferred Flex Formulary, if a manufacturer launches a lower cost authorized alternative, the branded product and possibly other products in the therapy class will be removed from coverage. Members with a high deductible or co-insurance plan enrolled in the formulary will have access to the lower priced alternative drug...