LIVING IN PAIN

Debby,

I know you are frustrated and in pain...and frustrated that you have to be in pain. I wonder if you could appeal to your insurance company for assistance. When my daughter had multiple complications for reflux and asthma, she was assigned a medical case manager by the insurance company. This person was able to move things along for us and get services much faster. Perhaps your doctor can also write a letter to the insurance company asking for an exemption to the qualifying rule for the medication. I have been in the same situation with my daughter and the doctor and I had to play the medication trial game before getting permission to go back to the original medication.

If all else fails, try calling the drug manufacturer. They often have helpful customer service reps who know how to work with the insurance companies. They might be able to give you a sample or coupon to tide your over until you get coverage.

Take a deep breath and hold your ground as you keep going...

You can vent all you want. Venting allowed and encouraged! That's what we are here for!

Jan Gambino

The Reflux Mom

Hi, I've been online trying to find help to fight with my insurance company, who won't cover Nexium either. They tell me it's the same thing as Prilosec, which I have taken long term bc they don't cover nexium and it's too expensive. I understand that it's the same components, but my stomach says - they are NOT the same. I was ON Prilosec 40-60mg a day and developed a bleeding ulcer, could not eat, was throwing up everything I ate, was in pain, constantly nauseas, etc. I lost 20 lbs, vomiting blood, and they still do not believe me and say it is the same. Within 4 days of taking my PAID for Nexium, the pain had gone, food was staying down, etc. I am going to fight this just bc of the principle, it is NOT the same. I have tried Prevacid, Protonix, Aciphex, Pepcid, none work NEARLY as well as the Nexium. How can insurance companies do this!!! I wish one of them could see what it was like, to see the difference btwn these two drugs, why the hell would I lie about Nexium!!!! 

So, I feel your pain and hope you get something resolved, I agree that whatever is different w/the nexium is REAL and it is NOT the same as Prilosec.