Inbrija (levodopa) inhalation powder

Indications for Prior Authorization

Inbrija (levodopa inhalation powder)
  • For diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease
    Indicated for the intermittent treatment of OFF episodes in patients with Parkinson's disease treated with carbidopa/levodopa.

Criteria

Inbrija

Prior Authorization

Length of Approval: 0 When approved; no reauthorization required

  • Diagnosis of Parkinson's disease
  • AND
  • Patient is experiencing intermittent OFF episodes
  • AND
  • Patient is receiving Inbrija in combination with carbidopa/levodopa at a maximally tolerated dose
  • AND
  • Trial and failure, contraindication or intolerance to two of the following: [A]
    • MAO-B Inhibitor (e.g., rasagiline, selegiline)
    • Dopamine Agonist (e.g., pramipexole, ropinirole)
    • COMT Inhibitor (e.g., entacapone)
    AND
  • Prescribed by or in consultation with a neurologist
P & T Revisions

2026-03-20, 2025-12-18, 2024-05-19, 2023-10-03, 2023-05-08, 2022-05-22, 2021-05-06, 2020-05-05

  1. Inbrija Prescribing Information. Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. Ardsley, NY. August 2020.
  2. Per clinical consult with neurologist, March 27, 2019.

  1. Primary treatment options for patients experiencing intermittent OFF episodes depends on the severity of the episodes. The easiest options include: shortening the dosing interval of levodopa, advising patient to take levodopa on an empty stomach if possible, or crushing the tablet and ingesting it with carbonated water for more predictable and faster absorption. Following the trial of the above options, entacapone, MAO-B Inhibitors or Dopamine Agonists may be added to the patient's therapy to enhance dopamine levels. [2]

  • 2026-03-20: Inbrija added to PA Reduction Program - reauthorization criteria removed.
  • 2025-12-18: no criteria changes, added IL statute operational note
  • 2024-05-19: 2024 Annual Review.
  • 2023-10-03: Program update to standard reauthorization language. No changes to clinical intent
  • 2023-05-08: 2023 Annual Review.
  • 2022-05-22: 2022 Annual Review
  • 2021-05-06: Annual Review
  • 2020-05-05: Annual Review. Removed drug name from first reauthorization criterion.