Limited coverage drugs – hydromorphone

Last updated on October 6, 2022

Generic Name / Strength / Form

hydromorphone controlled release 

Criteria

Approval period

Pain management in a specified chronic pain (including cancer pain) diagnosis.

PLUS

For patients who are unable to tolerate or receive an adequate response to either the regular release dosage forms of hydromorphone alone OR the sustained release preparations of morphine.

One Year

Practitioner exemptions

Practitioners in the following specialty are not required to submit a Special Authority request for coverage:

  • Oncologist (medical)
  • Oncologist (radiation)
  • Haematologist

Special notes

  • Details regarding patient's condition and previous medication history are required.
  • Renewal requests should provide an update on patient’s current dose and condition.
  • Hydromorphone controlled-release is a regular benefit for patients registered with the BC Palliative Care Benefits Program.

Special Authority request form(s)