State considers Medicaid's Viagra coverage

CARSON CITY -- Nevada is moving forward in allowing Medicaid to pay for Viagra, but the state will probably place restrictions on prescriptions for the impotence pill.

New York and Wisconsin health officials said last week they won't obey a federal directive that Medicaid must pay for the drug because they're not sure Viagra is safe.

"The state's position is it's federal law, and we're going to comply," said Gordon Absher, press secretary to Gov. Bob Miller. He added, however, the state is permitted to impose restrictions.

So far this year, Medicaid has covered 13 prescriptions for Viagra for a total cost of $1,300.

State Human Resources Director Charlotte Crawford said the state can require the conditions under which it may be prescribed for those enrolled in Medicaid.

A drug utilization review committee meets today to talk about possible restrictions and make recommendations. Crawford said a limit on the number of dosages could be imposed; there could be a duration on the prescription; and there could be a requirement the physician to get prior authorization from Medicaid before writing the prescription.

The review committee is composed of medical officials who are hired by the state to review these issues.

The suggestions will be given to Crawford who said she makes the final decision after talking with Medicaid officials.

She said "all due diligence" will be applied in authorizing this drug.

About 10 percent or about 9,500 male adults in Nevada are covered by Medicaid, the federal-state program to provide medical care for the needy. Most in this program are women and children.

The National Governors' Association estimates it will cost $100 million a year for the states and the federal government to pay for Viagra. Gov. Miller is concerned this was another unfunded mandate from the federal government, Crawford said.

Another concern is the potential abuse, such as selling the drug on the street. Crawford said the federal government is going to watch this, and the state will join in that effort.

The Food and Drug Administration says it has received 30 reports of death since Viagra was cleared for use three months ago. The manufacturer cautions it should not be taken by those on certain heart medications.

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