Overview of Depo-Provera
Depo-Provera, with the NDC code 00009-7376, is a human prescription drug labeled by Pharmacia & Upjohn Company LLC. It is an injection, suspension containing 150 MG of medroxyprogesterone acetate per 1 ML, used primarily for preventing pregnancy by inhibiting the secretion of gonadotropins, which prevents follicular maturation and ovulation[1][5].
Market Context
Global Pharmaceutical Market Trends
The pharmaceutical market, particularly the biopharma and biotech sectors, is experiencing significant growth driven by technological advancements, evolving regulatory frameworks, and a shift towards patient-centered care. The biopharma market size was estimated to be over $400 billion in 2024, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.56% between 2024 and 2029. The biotech sector is also growing rapidly, with a market size of nearly $500 billion in 2020 and an estimated CAGR of 9.4% between 2021 and 2027[3].
U.S. Prescription Drug Market
In the U.S., prescription drug prices are notably higher compared to other countries. The average price per unit in the U.S. is 5.5 times higher than in the OECD (excluding the U.S.) and 7.7 times higher than in the rest of the world. This disparity is partly due to the U.S. market's skew towards higher-cost drugs[4].
Pricing Trends
Historical Price Increases
Depo-Provera, like many other prescription drugs, has seen price increases over the years. Although specific historical price data for Depo-Provera is not provided in the sources, it is part of a broader trend where many prescription drugs have experienced significant price hikes. For example, between 2018 and 2023, nine out of ten drugs selected for Medicare negotiation saw list price increases ranging from 20% to 55%[2].
Current Pricing
The NDC code 00009-7376 is billed per milliliter, and the pricing can vary based on wholesale acquisition costs (WAC) or list prices. As of the latest data, the wholesale price and other financial details are not explicitly mentioned, but it is clear that the drug is part of the higher-priced segment of the pharmaceutical market[1].
Price Projections
Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program
Starting in January 2026, the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program will begin to implement negotiated prices for certain drugs, including those with significant price increases. While Depo-Provera is not specifically mentioned among the first ten drugs selected for negotiation, the program's impact on the broader pharmaceutical market could influence pricing strategies. Negotiated prices under this program have resulted in discounts ranging from 38% to 79% compared to list prices[2].
Global Market Dynamics
The U.S. market's high prices compared to other regions suggest that there could be downward pressure on prices if international pricing benchmarks are considered. However, the U.S. market's unique dynamics, including regulatory and reimbursement structures, often maintain higher prices. The average price per unit in the U.S. is expected to remain higher than in other countries, although there may be some adjustments due to increased scrutiny and regulatory changes[4].
Regulatory and Market Factors
Regulatory Landscape
The regulatory landscape is evolving to keep pace with innovation in the biopharma and biotech industries. This includes changes in clinical trial designs, precision medicine, and the use of AI/ML technologies. These advancements could lead to more efficient drug development and potentially impact pricing by reducing development costs and increasing competition[3].
Market Competition
The market for contraceptive drugs is competitive, with various options available. However, Depo-Provera's unique formulation and administration method (intramuscular injection) maintain its market presence. Competition from other contraceptive methods, including oral contraceptives and other injectable or implantable devices, can influence pricing strategies[5].
Key Takeaways
- High U.S. Prices: Depo-Provera, like many U.S. prescription drugs, is priced significantly higher than in other countries.
- Price Increases: Historical data shows that many prescription drugs, including those similar to Depo-Provera, have experienced substantial price increases.
- Medicare Negotiations: While Depo-Provera is not currently part of the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program, the program's impact on the broader market could influence future pricing.
- Regulatory Changes: Evolving regulatory frameworks and technological advancements may lead to more efficient drug development and potentially lower costs.
- Market Competition: The competitive landscape of contraceptive drugs will continue to influence the pricing of Depo-Provera.
FAQs
1. What is the primary use of Depo-Provera?
Depo-Provera is primarily used to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting the secretion of gonadotropins, which prevents follicular maturation and ovulation[5].
2. How is Depo-Provera administered?
Depo-Provera is administered via intramuscular injection, with each syringe containing 1 mL of medroxyprogesterone acetate (150 MG/ML)[1].
3. What are the billing units for Depo-Provera?
The contents of this package are billed per milliliter (mL)[1].
4. How do U.S. prices for Depo-Provera compare to international prices?
U.S. prices for Depo-Provera, like many other prescription drugs, are significantly higher than in other countries, with prices 5.5 times higher than in the OECD (excluding the U.S.) and 7.7 times higher than in the rest of the world[4].
5. Are there any upcoming regulatory changes that could affect the price of Depo-Provera?
The Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program, starting in January 2026, may influence pricing strategies for prescription drugs, although Depo-Provera is not currently part of this program. Evolving regulatory frameworks and technological advancements could also impact future pricing[2][3].
Sources
- NDC Package 0009-7376-11 Depo-provera - NDC List.
- Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program - ASPE, HHS.gov.
- 5 Predictions for the Biopharma and Biotech Industries in 2025 - TFS CRO.
- International Market Size and Prices - ASPE, HHS.gov.
- Label: DEPO-PROVERA- medroxyprogesterone acetate injection, suspension - DailyMed.
