Keytruda (Pembrolizumab): Prior Authorization Guidelines and Utilization Overview Across Major U.S. Payers

Keytruda (pembrolizumab) is a PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor developed by Merck, approved for treating various cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), melanoma, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL), and urothelial carcinoma. Due to its high cost and broad indications, major U.S. payors have established specific prior authorization (PA) requirements to manage its use effectively. Keytruda HCP

Prior Authorization Guidelines by Major Payors

Aetna

Aetna mandates precertification for Keytruda under both commercial and Medicare Advantage plans. The PA process requires detailed clinical information, including:

• FDA-approved diagnosis with corresponding ICD codes.

• PD-L1 expression status.

• Treatment history, especially prior use of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors.

• Specifics on dosing and administration settings.FDA Access Data+2Aetna+2ATRIO Health Plans+2Aetna+3UHC Provider+3ATRIO Health Plans+3

Aetna emphasizes the use of Keytruda in the lowest cost, medically appropriate setting, such as home infusion or outpatient centers, when feasible. Cigna

Cigna

Cigna requires prior authorization for Keytruda and prefers administration through its specialty pharmacy, Accredo. The PA form collects information on:

• Diagnosis and clinical justification.

• Prescriber and facility details.

• Treatment regimen and dosing schedule.CignaAetna+1Aetna+1Aetna+1Aetna+1

Cigna also advocates for infusion in cost-effective settings, aligning with their site-of-care policies. Hematology and Oncology+1Canada's Drug Agency+1

UnitedHealthcare (UHC)

UHC's clinical coverage policy for oncology medications includes Keytruda for specific indications, such as:

• Advanced or metastatic NSCLC with PD-L1 expression ≥50%.

• Recurrent or metastatic HNSCC.Aetna+9UHC Provider+9Aetna+9Wikipedia+2CareFirst Provider+2Keytruda HCP+2

Coverage is contingent upon meeting defined clinical criteria, and prior authorization is required to ensure appropriate use.

Medicare

Under Medicare Part B, Keytruda is covered for FDA-approved indications. However, some Medicare Advantage plans may impose additional PA requirements, including:

• Confirmation of diagnosis and treatment history.

• Evidence of PD-L1 expression or other biomarkers.

• Documentation of prior therapies and response.WikipediaCanada's Drug Agency+1CareFirst Provider+1

Providers must adhere to specific submission protocols, which may vary by plan.

Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)

BCBS plans have varying PA requirements depending on the state and specific plan. Generally, they require:

• Detailed clinical documentation supporting the use of Keytruda.

• Evidence of FDA-approved indication and prior treatments.

• Information on dosing and administration plans.AetnaATRIO Health Plans+1Canada's Drug Agency+1Merck Access Program

Providers should consult their specific BCBS plan for exact PA forms and criteria. Aetna+1ATRIO Health Plans+1

Drug Spending, Specialty, Patient Volume, and Delivery Method

Drug Spending

Keytruda is among the top oncology drugs in terms of spending. In 2020, Medicare reported expenditures of approximately $3.56 billion on Keytruda, accounting for 24.7% of its worldwide sales. DrugAnalyst

Specialty

Keytruda is primarily used in oncology, prescribed by specialists such as medical oncologists and hematologists. Its use spans multiple cancer types, reflecting its broad FDA-approved indications.

Patient Volume

The patient population for Keytruda is substantial, given its approval for various common and rare cancers. Its use has expanded with approvals for tumor-agnostic indications, such as microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) or mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) tumors.Wikipedia+3Canada's Drug Agency+3Aetna+3

Delivery Method

Keytruda is administered via intravenous infusion. The standard dosing regimen is 200 mg every three weeks or 400 mg every six weeks, depending on the specific indication and patient factors. WikipediaMerck Access Program

Conclusion

Keytruda's widespread use across multiple cancer types necessitates stringent prior authorization processes by major payors to ensure appropriate utilization. Healthcare providers must navigate varying PA requirements, emphasizing the importance of thorough clinical documentation and adherence to specific plan protocols. Given its significant impact on drug spending and patient care, understanding these guidelines is crucial for optimal treatment planning and reimbursement.