Member Important Updates on NYRx, the Medicaid Pharmacy Benefit

September 2026

Subject: Important Updates on NYRx, the Medicaid Pharmacy Benefit
Dear Members,

We hope this communication finds you well. We have news about NYRx. Your health matters to us, and we want to give you the latest information to help you manage your drugs and supplies.

What is NYRx?
NYRx is your New York Medicaid pharmacy benefit. NYRx covers your prescription drugs and supplies, and some over-the-counter items. To see what's covered under the NYRx program, visit member.emedny.org.
Key Updates
Extra Information Needed for Certain High-Cost Medicines:

Starting September 10, 2026, the following drugs will no longer be covered by NYRx without your doctor requesting approval. These drugs have alternate options available that do not require more information. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about alternative drugs that do not require approval.

Drugs that will need this additional information:
Baclofen 15mg Tablet
Benzonatate 150mg Capsule
Buspirone 5mg Capsule
Buspirone 2.5mg, 12.5mg Tablet
Bupropion XL 450mg Tablet
Diflorasone 0.05% Cream
Doxycycline Hyclate 75mg Capsule
Duloxetine 80mg, 90mg, 120mg Capsule
Gabapentin 200mg Capsule
Meclizine 50mg Tablet
Naproxen-Esomeprazole 375-20mg, 500-20mg Tablet
Omeprazole-Sodium Bicarbonate 20mg-1680mg, 40mg-1680mg Packet
Tazarotene 0.05%, 0.1% Gel
Ursodiol 150mg Capsule
How will you get these drugs?

You may still be able to get these drugs, but your doctor will have to submit additional information showing a clear health-related reason for use. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to get more information.
Important Reminders
90-Day Supplies: Most drugs you take regularly are available as a 90-day supply. To get a 90-day supply, ask your doctor for a prescription. You can also talk to your pharmacist, who can speak to your doctor.

Stay Up to Date: To review current and past member notifications for NYRx, visit the ‘Member Notices' section of the eMedNY member website: https://member.emedny.org/pharmacy/notices

Important Information About Your NY Medicaid Benefits:Make sure NY State of Health has your current mailing address, phone number and email address so they can contact you about your health insurance. Update your contact information at: https://info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov/KeepYourCoverage so you know when to renew your coverage.
Questions? We're Here to Help!
If you have any questions regarding your pharmacy benefits or NYRx, please call the Medicaid Helpline at (800) 541-2831. Our agents are available:
  • Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 8 PM
  • Saturday, 9 AM to 1 PM

TTY 1-800-662-1220. We also provide help in different languages.

Thank you,

NYRx, Medicaid Pharmacy Program
New York State Department of Health