Overview of Amantadine Hydrochloride
Amantadine Hydrochloride, identified by the National Drug Code (NDC) 00832-1015, is a medication manufactured by Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC. This drug is used for various indications, including the treatment of Parkinson's disease, drug-induced extrapyramidal reactions, and as an antiviral agent against influenza A virus[1].
Current Market Context
Drug Price Inflation
The pharmaceutical market is experiencing a significant rise in drug prices. According to Vizient's Pharmacy Market Outlook, the overall drug price inflation rate for 2025 is projected to be around 3.81%. This increase is driven by several factors, including the expanding indications of previously approved medications and the introduction of high-cost cell and gene therapies[2][3].
Specialty Pharmaceuticals
Specialty pharmaceuticals, which include many of the newer and more complex treatments, are a major contributor to the rising drug costs. The increasing utilization of weight loss drugs, gene therapies, and other specialty medications is expected to continue driving up pharmacy expenditures[3].
Price Projections for Amantadine Hydrochloride
Historical Pricing
While specific historical price data for NDC 00832-1015 is not provided, it is important to note that generic drugs like Amantadine Hydrochloride generally experience less dramatic price fluctuations compared to brand-name or specialty drugs. However, they are not immune to the broader trends in the pharmaceutical market.
Future Price Trends
Given the overall trend of drug price inflation, it is likely that Amantadine Hydrochloride will see some level of price increase. Here are a few factors to consider:
- Generic Drug Pricing: Generic drugs typically see lower price increases compared to brand-name drugs. However, they can still be affected by broader market trends and supply chain issues[3].
- Market Competition: The presence of multiple manufacturers for Amantadine Hydrochloride could help stabilize prices, but it does not guarantee immunity from inflationary pressures.
- Regulatory and Transparency Efforts: Initiatives like the Prescription Drug Price Transparency Act aim to provide more transparency and accountability in drug pricing. While these efforts may help mitigate extreme price hikes, they do not eliminate the possibility of price increases[5].
Impact of Broader Market Trends
Expanding Indications and New Therapies
The expansion of indications for other drugs, such as GLP-1 agents like semaglutide, and the introduction of new high-cost therapies (e.g., gene and cell therapies) can indirectly affect the pricing environment for all drugs, including generics like Amantadine Hydrochloride. These factors contribute to an overall increase in healthcare costs, which can trickle down to affect the pricing of other medications[2].
Biosimilars and Generic Market Share
The growth of biosimilars and generic drugs can influence the market dynamics. While biosimilars are expected to increase in market share, their impact on traditional generic drugs like Amantadine Hydrochloride is likely to be minimal, as they primarily compete with biologic drugs[3].
Supply Chain and Manufacturing Considerations
National Drug Code (NDC) and Labeler
The NDC 00832-1015 identifies Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC as the labeler. The stability of the manufacturer and the efficiency of their supply chain can influence the pricing and availability of the drug. Any disruptions in the supply chain could lead to price volatility[4].
Key Takeaways
- Price Inflation: The pharmaceutical market is expected to see a 3.81% price inflation rate in 2025, which could impact the pricing of Amantadine Hydrochloride.
- Generic Drug Stability: While generic drugs are generally less volatile, they are not immune to broader market trends.
- Supply Chain and Manufacturing: Stability in the supply chain and manufacturing processes is crucial for maintaining consistent pricing.
- Regulatory Transparency: Efforts to increase transparency in drug pricing may help mitigate extreme price hikes but do not eliminate the possibility of price increases.
FAQs
Q: What is the current market trend for drug prices?
A: The current market trend indicates a projected drug price inflation rate of 3.81% for 2025, driven by specialty pharmaceuticals and expanding indications of previously approved medications[2][3].
Q: How does the introduction of new therapies affect generic drug prices?
A: The introduction of new high-cost therapies can indirectly affect the pricing environment for all drugs by contributing to an overall increase in healthcare costs, which can trickle down to affect the pricing of other medications[2].
Q: What role do biosimilars play in the pharmaceutical market?
A: Biosimilars are expected to increase in market share, primarily competing with biologic drugs. Their impact on traditional generic drugs like Amantadine Hydrochloride is likely to be minimal[3].
Q: How do supply chain disruptions affect drug pricing?
A: Supply chain disruptions can lead to price volatility. The stability of the manufacturer and the efficiency of their supply chain are crucial for maintaining consistent pricing[4].
Q: What is the purpose of the Prescription Drug Price Transparency Act?
A: The Prescription Drug Price Transparency Act aims to increase accountability for prescription drug pricing through the notice and disclosure of specific drug costs and price information from pharmaceutical manufacturers, health insurers, and consumers[5].
Sources
- Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC - List of Drugs - NDC Labeler. FindACode.
- Vizient projects drug price inflation at 3.81%. Vizient Inc.
- Vizient Projects 3.8% Drug Price Increase Driven by Specialty Pharmaceuticals. Vizient Inc.
- National Drug Code Database Background Information - FDA. FDA.
- Prescription Drug Price Transparency Results and Recommendations. Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services.
