Market Analysis and Price Projections for Horizant (NDC: 53451-0101)
Introduction
Horizant, with the National Drug Code (NDC) 53451-0101, is an extended-release oral tablet containing the active ingredient gabapentin enacarbil. It is marketed by Arbor Pharmaceuticals and is used primarily for the treatment of restless legs syndrome and postherpetic neuralgia. Here, we will delve into the market analysis and price projections for this drug.
Market Context
The pharmaceutical market, particularly for prescription drugs, is complex and influenced by various factors including regulatory policies, competition from generics and biosimilars, and global health expenditure trends.
Global Pharmaceutical Market Trends
The global pharmaceutical market is expected to see significant transformations driven by digital advancements, innovation, and changing regulatory landscapes. According to Deloitte's 2025 life sciences outlook, pricing and access to drugs remain a major concern, with nearly half of the C-suite executives surveyed expecting these issues to significantly impact their strategies[3].
Pricing Dynamics
Pricing of prescription drugs like Horizant is a critical aspect of market analysis.
Comparative Pricing
In the United States, the average price per unit of prescription drugs is significantly higher compared to other OECD countries and the rest of the world. For instance, in 2022, the average price per unit in the U.S. was 5.5 times as high as in the OECD (excluding the U.S.) and 7.7 times as high as in the rest of the world[4].
Price Increases and Transparency
The Oregon Drug Price Transparency Program highlights the variability in price increases for prescription drugs. The program reported that the median price increase for generic drugs was 19.9%, while for brand name drugs it was 13.4% in 2022. Such significant price increases are often attributed to various factors including supply chain dynamics, regulatory environments, and market competition[2].
Market Size and Growth
The prescription drug market has seen substantial growth, particularly in the U.S.
Sales Revenue and Volume
Between 2017 and 2022, the U.S. saw a 14% increase in the average price per unit of prescription drugs, contrasting with decreases in other regions. The sales revenues for prescription drugs in the U.S. grew significantly, with biologic products showing a 61% increase during the same period[4].
Competition from Generics and Biosimilars
Horizant, being a brand name drug, faces competition from generic versions and biosimilars.
Impact of Generics and Biosimilars
The life sciences industry is facing a substantial loss of exclusivity due to expiring patents, with over $300 billion in sales at risk through 2030. This trend is expected to drive interest in mergers and acquisitions and increase competition from generics and biosimilars[3].
Regulatory Environment
Regulatory policies play a crucial role in shaping the market for prescription drugs.
Price Transparency and Affordability Boards
States like Oregon have implemented price transparency programs and established drug affordability boards to study drug costs and perform affordability reviews. These initiatives aim to address the high costs of prescription drugs by considering measures such as upper payment limits, similar to those in other wealthy nations[2].
Price Projections for Horizant
Given the current market trends and regulatory environment, here are some key points to consider for price projections:
Current Pricing
As of the last available data, Horizant is priced at 600 mg per tablet, with the specific pricing dependent on various factors including insurance coverage, pharmacy discounts, and manufacturer rebates[1].
Future Trends
- Price Increases: Given the historical trends, it is likely that Horizant could see moderate price increases, potentially in line with the median increases observed for brand name drugs.
- Competition: The impending competition from generics, once the patent expires, could lead to a reduction in prices as generic versions enter the market.
- Regulatory Impact: Initiatives such as upper payment limits and increased transparency could also influence pricing by capping the maximum amount that can be charged for the drug.
Key Takeaways
- The pharmaceutical market is highly influenced by pricing, access, and regulatory factors.
- Horizant, as a brand name drug, faces significant competition from generics and biosimilars.
- Price transparency programs and drug affordability boards are becoming more prevalent, potentially impacting future pricing.
- The U.S. market sees higher prices compared to other regions, but regulatory changes could mitigate this.
FAQs
Q: What is Horizant used for?
A: Horizant is used primarily for the treatment of restless legs syndrome and postherpetic neuralgia.
Q: Who markets Horizant?
A: Horizant is marketed by Arbor Pharmaceuticals.
Q: What is the active ingredient in Horizant?
A: The active ingredient in Horizant is gabapentin enacarbil.
Q: How does the U.S. pricing of prescription drugs compare to other regions?
A: The U.S. has significantly higher prices for prescription drugs compared to other OECD countries and the rest of the world.
Q: What impact do generics and biosimilars have on brand name drugs like Horizant?
A: Generics and biosimilars can significantly reduce the market share and pricing of brand name drugs once they enter the market.
Sources
- FDA Report: NDC 53451-0101 Oral Tablet, Extended Release Horizant Drug.
- Oregon Drug Price Transparency Program: Prescription Drug Price Transparency Results and Recommendations.
- Deloitte Insights: 2025 life sciences outlook.
- ASPE Issue Brief: International Market Size and Prices.
