'Least Costly Alternative' for DuoNeb Withdrawn from Nebulizer LCD

Late last month, the DME MACs advised providers the least costly alternative for DuoNeb—which would pay for the brand medication at the same rate as generic ipratropium and albuterol—has been withdrawn from the nebulizer LCD.

"The provision related to the application of the least costly alternative to the combination drug albuterol/ipratropium (e.g., DuoNeb) that was scheduled to be implemented on Nov. 1, 2008, is being withdrawn. Other provisions of the policy remain in effect.

This change will be included in an upcoming revision of the LCD for nebulizers," according to a MAC notice.